Program

Explore over 60 events advancing global actions on climate change.

The COP30 Canada Pavilion will embody Canada’s inclusive and collaborative approach to tackling the triple threat of climate change, biodiversity loss and plastic pollution. It is a critical venue for Canada to convene key partners and stakeholders to advance global climate actions through the lenses of ambition, partnership, and implementation.

All dates and times are subject to change

Monday, November 10, 2025

12:00 PM - 1:15 PM

30 Climate COPs Later: Experiences and Visions from Canadian Civil Society

As part of the publication of 30 Climate COPs Later: Stories from Canadian Participants, the editorial team is organizing a panel discussion with contributors to the book, which will focus on the participation of influential members of Canadian civil society in international climate negotiations over the past three decades. Bringing together representatives from Indigenous peoples, subnational governments, and the labor movement, the panel embodies the diversity and richness of Canadian perspectives on climate action and the importance of adopting collaborative approaches. Through their unpublished anecdotes, it will retrace Canada's place and contribution to past and current climate negotiations, and its role in the future of these negotiations.

1:45 PM - 2:30 PM

Climate Federalism from Brazil to Canada: Canadian Leadership for Multilevel Governance

The COP30 presidency has emphasized the concept of “climate federalism.” Like Brazil, Canada is among the endorsers of the CHAMP initiative (Coalition for High Ambition Multilevel Partnerships) and a member of the “Friends of Multilevel Action.” This panel seeks to stimulate discussion on Canada’s leadership in multilevel climate governance: both the role it has played to date and the role it can and should continue to play through domestic policy or politics, multilateral action, and international negotiations. The challenges ahead cannot be met without the active involvement of regional governments, municipal authorities, and Indigenous communities worldwide. The panel will therefore bring together representatives of the federal and federated governments, Indigenous communities, and municipal authorities to discuss together current dynamics of Canadian climate federalism and to envision future directions.

4:15 PM - 6:00 PM

From Delivery to Transformation: Scaling CREWS’ Impact to 2030

This event will mark a strategic milestone for the Climate Risk and Early Warning Systems (CREWS) initiative: the official launch of its Strategy 2030. Strategy 2030 charts a bold path forward, enabling countries – particularly Least Developed Countries and Small Island Developing States – to build inclusive, effective, and sustainable EWS that save lives, protect livelihoods, and reduce risks of loss and damage, while accelerating progress toward the UN Secretary-General’s Early Warnings for All target of universal coverage by 2027. The event will feature a high-level panel discussion on translating Strategy 2030 into bold, actionable progress that delivers tangible impact on the ground, followed by a CREWS-hosted reception bringing together leaders and partners to celebrate collective achievements and reinforce cooperation toward greater climate resilience.

Tuesday, November 11, 2025

9:30 AM - 10:15 AM

Scaling-up Adaptation to Climate Change

In the face of more frequent and intense climate hazards, there is an urgent need to rapidly scale-up adaptation in the health sector and elsewhere; a need to expand successful pilots so they reach more communities, regions, and sectors. We need to understand which adaptation actions have been successful, and why, and to pursue a coordinated, cross-sectoral approach so that countries can move from incremental, to transformational adaptation to protect the health of individuals and communities in an equitable way. This event will bring together representatives at the national and sub-national level for a panel discussion on how we scale up adaptation actions, drawing on experiences from health system adaptation and other sectors.

10:45 AM - 11:30 AM

Central Banks Driving Inclusive Green Finance for MSMEs

Central banks and financial regulators are emerging as important actors in shaping how climate finance reaches the real economy, especially micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs). Through their mandates on financial inclusion, stability, and market development, regulators are well-positioned to design and implement policies that remove barriers to green finance and ensure that MSMEs, including those led by women, can access the resources they need to adapt, build resilience, and contribute to low-carbon growth. This side event will share the key outcomes of a joint Alliance for Financial Inclusion and IDRC global research initiative on Inclusive Green Finance. It will feature speakers from central banks and financial regulators, focusing on practical solutions and scalable policy recommendations to show how they can close climate finance gaps and promote an inclusive and just transition.

12:00 PM - 12:45 PM

Powering the Digital Age

This panel convenes senior leaders from the private sector and the technology industry to examine how innovation—can enable infrastructure that is both resilient and aligned with national and global sustainability goals. The discussion will highlight how AI can help drive economic growth, cost and emissions reductions through energy optimization, and strengthen national infrastructure while advancing sustainability priorities.

1:15 PM - 2:00 PM

Building Canada Homes with Wood. A Low-Carbon Blueprint for Climate-Resilient Communities

Canada has made an ambitious commitment through the Build Canada Homes (BCH) initiative to accelerate the delivery of affordable housing nationwide. To achieve both climate and social goals, BCH must go further in recognizing the role of wood and engineered wood products as a cornerstone of resilient, low-carbon infrastructure. This panel will showcase how building with low-carbon wood products not only delivers immediate solutions to Canada’s housing crisis but is also a globally relevant model for sustainable community development. The discussion will bring together Canadian and international perspectives to highlight both domestic policy accountability and global leadership.

2:30 PM - 3:15 PM

The Canadian Youth Climate Assembly: deliberative democracy in action

On September 21st more than 20 Parliamentarians gathered in the Senate Chamber to hear the recommendations of the Canadian Youth Climate Assembly — the first national citizens’ assembly on climate change in Canada, and the first anywhere in the world designed specifically for young adults aged 18–25. Over five days in Ottawa, 33 young Canadians selected through a civic lottery deliberated for 35 hours on how Canada can meet its climate commitments in ways that reflect the values and priorities of their generation. Drawn from nearly 700 applicants, members represented every region and the full socio-demographic diversity of Canada. You will hear directly from youth participants about this historic event in the Senate, and how Parliamentarians will address the Canadian Youth Climate Assembly’s recommendations. Democratic events like this are key for citizen participation in addressing climate change.

3:45 PM - 4:30 PM

Renewable Energy for Remote Communities: Transforming Lives in the Amazon

The COP30 session in Brazil will focus on transitioning remote Amazon communities to renewable energy, aligning with IRENA’s Global Initiative on Transitioning Remote Communities and GEAPP’s Universal Access Coalition for Latin America and the Caribbean. It will examine effective approaches for deploying decentralized renewable energy (DRE) systems to power healthcare, education, and livelihoods while supporting local well-being and ecosystem preservation. Featuring speakers from Canada, development partners, and Amazon communities, the session will highlight strategies for expanding energy access, decarbonization, and a just transition in off-grid areas. Co-organized by IRENA, Natural Resources Canada (NRCan), and GEAPP, it will be held at the Canada Pavilion.

Wednesday, November 12, 2025

9:30 AM - 10:15 AM

ICL Opening: A Dialogue on Indigenous Climate Leadership

This event is an opportunity to come together to set the intention for meaningful climate action engagement at COP30 and to discuss collective goals and perspectives on tackling the triple threat of climate change, biodiversity loss and plastic pollution.

10:45 AM - 11:30 AM

Assembly of First Nations || First Nations Climate Action: Learning from our Past to Support Future Generations

In the face of a rapidly changing climate, First Nations have been raising their voice to call for rapid decarbonization, raising the profile of what First Nations Climate Leadership means. This panel brings together presentations by First Nations at the national and provincial level to discuss the implications of First Nations climate action, its’ historical expressions in international advocacy, and highlight how First Nations are ‘active leaders’ based on unique connections to the land, water, air, and more-than-human beings. It will demonstrate how a First Nations-led framework for climate action that centres First Nations knowledge systems, rights, and governance is essential to achieve Canada’s climate commitments under the Paris Agreement.

1:15 PM - 2:00 PM

Power in Partnership: re-envisioning climate solutions

This event will showcase how climate action in partnership with Indigenous peoples can be done in the right way. The discussion will give tangible examples for how strong partnerships are the foundation for successful climate action. Speakers will present on successful Métis-led climate projects, grounded in reciprocal relationships with various partners, at the regional, national, and international scale. These examples will showcase to the audience how they can participate in reconciliation in a meaningful way and will demonstrate for why Indigenous led climate action is beneficial to all partners involved.

2:30 PM - 3:15 PM

The Power of Indigenous Partnerships for Climate Resilience

This event will showcase the design and ambitious outcomes of the Building Climate Resilience from Indigenous Perspectives project, a four-year (2024 – 2028) project led the BC Assembly of First Nations and the Continental Network of Indigenous Women of the Americas, supported by the Save the Children and funded by Global Affairs Canada. The panel will speak to their collaborative effort to advance Indigenous climate action and self-determination. Central to their approach is the conviction that Indigenous knowledge systems, ancestral technologies, and rights must guide solutions to the intertwined environmental and climate crisis. The event will share the lived experience of leading an international project between North and South Indigenous organizations and convey the importance of supporting Indigenous partnerships worldwide. It will also underscore the vital leadership of Indigenous women in climate action.

3:45 PM - 4:30 PM

Manitoba Métis Federation – Climate Leadership

This event highlights Red River Métis leadership in climate governance, biodiversity, and community resilience. Presenters will introduce the Manitoba Métis Federation, the National Government of the Red River Métis, explaining its role as a self-governing body with jurisdiction over lands, waters, and resources. They will show how Indigenous governments like the MMF ensure climate solutions are legitimate, enduring, and rooted in Métis law and knowledge. Presenters will explore how Indigenous stewardship drives biodiversity protection and climate resilience through land-based programs and science. Presenters will bring a youth perspective, emphasizing intergenerational responsibility and the importance of investing in Métis youth leadership. Presenters will conclude by linking Métis climate leadership to community adaptation, showcasing how resilience begins locally but must be recognized globally.

5:00 PM - 6:00 PM

ICL Day Reception

Join us as we conclude the Indigenous Climate Leadership Day at the Canada Pavilion. This is a chance to connect and network with Indigenous leaders, delegates, and partners, reflecting on the day’s discussions and forging new collaborations for meaningful, Indigenous-led climate action at COP30 and beyond.

Thursday, November 13, 2025

9:15 AM - 10:00 AM

Decarbonizing medical supply chains— an opportunity to multi-solve

Decarbonizing medical supply chains offers Canada an opportunity to strengthen both its health system and its sovereignty. As we re-examine our drug choices–how can we also improve equity, reduce toxic pollution and ease our dependence on global supply chains? Examining case studies from green hospital buildings to anesthetic drugs to HIV treatment to medical products, this multidisciplinary, international panel will explore success cases as canadian hospitals are evacuated due to out of control wildfire. Phasing out desflurane— a superpolluting anaesthetic gas—, and the decarbonization of HIV drugs, both for prevention and treatment open the door and generate momentum towards many more healthcare systems decarbonization interventions.

10:15 AM - 11:00 AM

ICAT at 10: A Decade of Support to Climate Action Transparency and the Road Ahead to 2030

The Initiative for Climate Action Transparency (ICAT) will celebrate its 10th anniversary at COP30, marking a decade of impact and the launch of the next phase of the Initiative, ICAT 2.1, through 2030. The event will feature high-level interventions, including statements by ministers from ICAT partner countries and representatives of donor governments. Building on a decade of collaboration with over 70 countries, ICAT 2.1 will extend its assistance to strengthen national transparency frameworks as a foundation for stronger national policies, effective NDC implementation, and enhanced transparency under the Paris Agreement. The session will include a presentation of the strategic vision of the new phase, partner testimonials and reflections on impact, and the announcement of new country engagements.

11:30 AM - 12:15 PM

Building a future that works in Canada and around the world

Countries around the world must make major investments to transition to net zero. Investments in our futures must create the good jobs we need today and for generations to come. “Building a future that works in Canada and around the world" will examine how strategic national investments can together with key labour conditions, training, and other policies create good jobs for workers pulling from examples like Canada's Major Projects Office and other examples from around the world, building the future of our countries and creating work that's compatible with our future

12:30 PM - 1:15 PM

Catalyzing innovative partnerships that deliver big climate, nature and economic gains

This interactive panel will spotlight the power of relationships and leadership across sectors key to advancing economic prosperity with climate and landscape resiliency. This session is as much about people as it is about the partnerships that link resource project acceleration with climate, conservation and Indigenous leadership. The discussion will be guided by three themes: leadership values, illustrative examples of world-class projects, and innovations required to scale. Join us to hear first-hand how economic development within the context of our changing planet can be achieved with climate and nature results. This session is a must for climate leaders looking to grow their understanding of how Indigenous leadership, government policy and industry standards can drive transformative change for a more prosperous Canada and world.

1:45 PM - 2:45 PM

Nature Champions

3:00 PM - 3:45 PM

Canadian Climate Change Integrity – Report on Research

In an era when misinformation is shaping public perception and delaying action on the climate crisis, Canada is taking steps to understand and address how leading climate disinformation narratives break through into Canadian discourse and what impact they have on Canadians. This session, led by researchers from McGill University’s Centre for Media, Technology and Democracy, will present new findings from Canada’s first comprehensive study on climate disinformation and its impacts. The discussion will highlight emerging global frameworks—such as the UN’s Global Initiative for Information Integrity on Climate Change and explore how Canada can build resilience against climate disinformation through evidence-based ecosystem monitoring, governance, international cooperation, and stronger information integrity standards.

4:15 PM - 5:00 PM

North-South Dialogue on Climate Issues: Cross-Perspectives Canada/Brazil

Climate change is a global crisis whose effects manifest themselves differently depending on geographic, socioeconomic, and political contexts. Inequalities can also arise between countries in the Global North and the Global South, particularly in terms of participation in COPs and access to the resources to do so. It is essential to foster spaces for dialogue between actors in the Global North and the Global South, particularly in academic circles, in order to promote a mutual understanding of climate issues and co-construct courses of action adapted to local realities. The proposed panel, bringing together students and researchers from Université Laval (Canada) and UNESP (Brazil), aims to contribute to this dynamic by highlighting the convergences, tensions, and opportunities for collaboration between the two regions.

5:15 PM - 6:00 PM

Building the Workforce for Canada’s Clean Energy Transition

Canada’s transition to a Net-Zero economy requires a large volume of workforce with the skills and capacity to meet new labour demands. The shift to clean energy involves maintaining and expanding currently-available technologies, deploying innovative options, and ensuring that there will be adequate professionals who will design, construct, and maintain them. This event will examine how Canada is preparing its workforce for the energy transition, the skills that will be required, and the importance of attracting young people to careers in the sector.

Friday, November 14, 2025

9:30 AM - 10:15 AM

Bridging Energy and Environment through Social Innovation

This workshop-style session bridges the themes of energy, resilience, innovation, and collaboration. It demonstrates how Canadian approaches to system-level change—linking energy, environment, and social innovation—offer models relevant internationally. We will showcase Canada’s leadership potential in critical minerals, Indigenous partnerships, and collaborative initiatives that have global relevance as Canada seeks markets for low-emission resources.

10:30 AM - 11:15 AM

From Minerals to Molecules: Carbon Removals As Canada’s New Resource Frontier

Canada is poised to lead the next resource wave - not oil or gas, but carbon removal. In this COP30 panel, the Government of Canada joins some of the country’s leading innovators in the direct air capture (DAC) ecosystem to show the country’s geology, clean power, and industrial know-how can scale removals from pilot to gigaton. We’ll dig into policy signals (ITCs, contracts for difference), permitting and infrastructure, MRV standards, market demand, and partnerships with communities and Indigenous rights holders. From minerals to molecules, learn what it will take to build durable, bankable carbon removal projects—and why Canada can be the world’s trusted supplier.

11:45 AM - 12:30 PM

Responsible Business Conduct in the Climate Era

This session, hosted at the Canada Pavilion, will bring together government, industry, and civil society leaders to explore how Responsible Business Conduct (RBC) enables a just and inclusive energy transition. Discussions will address how RBC frameworks strengthen trust, transparency, and sustainable investment across critical minerals, renewable energy, and biodiversity-sensitive supply chains. Featuring speakers from Canada, Brazil, and international partners, the event will showcase Canadian innovation and governance standards as practical tools to align economic growth with human rights, democracy, and climate ambition.

1:00 PM - 1:45 PM

Mobilizing Government, Innovators & Industry to Enable Cleantech Adoption

This discussion will showcase how coordinated funding and partnership models can move cleantech from concept to commercial reality. Attendees will gain insight into strategies that align government programs, industry needs, and innovators to scale adoption and maximize environmental impact.

2:00 PM - 2:45 PM

Maintaining Momentum for the Global Methane Pledge

Methane reduction has emerged as one of the fastest, most cost-effective levers to slow global warming. Today, as Canada takes the mantle as a co-convener of the 150-country strong Global Methane Pledge collaboration, the challenge now lies in moving from commitments to measurable results. This panel will explore what’s next for the Pledge in today’s shifting geopolitical context and highlight how leaders across the government and the private sector are driving progress through policy, international cooperation, and innovation.

3:15 PM - 4:00 PM

Canada Leads the Charge: Pioneering Green Finance for Clean Nuclear Technologies

Canada is leading the global conversation on clean energy innovation through its deployment of Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) and pioneering use of green bonds to finance nuclear energy. This event, co-hosted by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and the Canadian Nuclear Association (CNA), will spotlight Ontario Power Generation’s (OPG) expansion of SMRs at the Darlington site, the first commercial grid-scale SMR project in North America, and Canada’s updated Green Bond Framework, which now includes nuclear energy expenditures. The session will explore how Canada is integrating nuclear energy into its sustainable finance strategy, aligning with international best practices and investor preferences. It will also highlight the climate, economic, and benefits of SMRs, including their role in decarbonizing electricity, industry, and transport

4:15 PM - 5:00 PM

People’s Solutions to Climate Action: Workers, Indigenous people, and communities

A ”People’s Solutions to Climate Action” will demonstrate how communities and stakeholders across the country are concretely delivering decarbonization, nature protection, and the energy transition. With speakers from labour unions, Indigenous communities, and environmental experts, this panel will present unique insight into how leaders are using their own inherent power and internal structures of governance and democracy to deliver climate progress. It will demonstrate how these stakeholders are using their power and expertise to deliver positive policy in Canada, and to execute on their own shared solutions. It will be an important conversation for those looking to learn from and celebrate the victories that labour, Indigenous, and environmental leaders have achieved.

5:30 PM - 7:30 PM

Pride & Progress: Queer-Led Climate Action in Canada & Abroad

Queer communities have long led with creativity and resilience in the fight for justice, and climate action is no exception. Yet progress on inclusion is unfolding against a backdrop of regression in rights. In Alberta, Bill 26 restricts access to gender-affirming care for youth, and some provinces are moving to limit access more broadly. At the same time, new HIV prevention drugs with a lower carbon footprint are making it easier for queer communities to be protected—a sea change that shows how health and climate progress can align. This panel will explore how setbacks and breakthroughs alike shape queer leadership in advancing equity-driven climate action.

Saturday, November 15, 2025

9:30 AM - 10:15 AM

Scaling solutions for the coal-to-clean transition

Coal-fired power generation remains the most carbon-intensive source of energy worldwide, contributing significantly to global greenhouse gas emissions. While a transition from coal to clean electricity can bring long-term economic and climate benefits, many countries, especially emerging economies with much younger coal fleets and growing energy demand, face significant challenges in accelerating it. Despite these challenges, the past five years have seen promising innovation in early coal retirement and clean replacement projects. This event will showcase these pilots and share the emerging lessons learnt to inform continued efforts to build the pipeline of projects globally. Speakers will also outline recommendations to governments and financial institutions on how to unlock further progress.

10:45 AM - 11:30 AM

Subnational governments facing headwinds in the Americas and pursuing climate transition

COP30 should mark a critical moment in the implementation of the Paris Agreement, but to date, ambitions appear uneven, with some governments in the Americas even backtracking. In this context, subnational governments across the continent have become key drivers of progress toward achieving the goals and ambitions of the Paris Agreement. This discussion will address the political and economic challenges facing subnational governments in the Americas. It will explore how they are addressing these challenges while developing innovative solutions to transition their economies away from fossil fuels and accelerating cooperation efforts to ensure a just and equitable transition.

12:00 PM - 12:45 PM

Accelerating North-South Carbon Finance Impact with Digital Integrity Infrastructure

Carbon finance offers important opportunities for North-South collaboration on climate action and supports low-carbon development goals, addressing such issues as energy poverty, clean cooking, air quality, gender inequity and so on. However, issues with trust, transparency and governance can impede the flow of much-needed capital investment into host countries. Digital integrity infrastructure can derisk carbon finance for project developers, project investors, carbon credit buyers and national entities by establishing immutable, transparent and traceable data trails. This boosts liquidity and streamlines capital flows, ensuring the highest quality outcomes and securing host country entitlements and benefits.

1:15 PM - 2:00 PM

Sharing approches: Carbon Pricing, Trade, and Development in a Mutirão Spirit

In direct alignment with the core objectives of COP30 – including increasing global climate ambition, strengthening international cooperation, and promoting inclusive approaches – this event aims to: Present concrete policy options for aligning carbon pricing with trade and development; Discuss the enabling conditions for establishing a climate coalition that bridges developed and developing countries; Showcase existing regional and international initiatives, and open dialogue with partners from emerging economies; Facilitate a multi-stakeholder discussion with representatives from governments, experts, international organizations, and civil society

2:30 PM - 3:15 PM

Strengthening Engagement on Climate Action: Communicating in Uncertain Times

In Canada, as elsewhere, the impacts of climate change are intensifying, while public support is losing momentum. Rising costs of living, declining trust in institutions, and the spread of misinformation are fueling fatigue and weakening the implementation of ambitious climate policies, particularly in the area of ecofiscal measures. This panel will explore how we can communicate more effectively about climate action to sustain and strengthen public engagement in ambitious climate efforts. Three guiding questions will frame the discussion: – What drives public disengagement? – How can we address polarization and misinformation? – How can we (re)connect with people?

3:45 PM - 4:30 PM

Aligning Canadian climate policy with competitiveness and growth

Effective policy creates the signals, regulatory frameworks and incentives necessary to attract capital to Canadian markets, support and accelerate innovation, remove barriers to growth and enable Canadian companies to compete globally. Climate policy that does not also unleash new innovation and economic growth is missing the mark. As the world continues to rapidly decarbonize, major economies like China are leagues ahead in developing low-cost clean energy and innovative technologies. Join policy experts and business leaders to explore the latest examples, evidence and research on how Canadian policy can be updated to align with a competitiveness and growth agenda. Find out how policymakers can help ensure Canada’s economy is future-fit in a time of turbulent trade dynamics, rising costs for businesses, and an increasingly competitive global energy transition.

5:00 PM - 5:45 PM

Mobilizing Finance for the Transition

This event brings together a diverse coalition of stakeholders across the finance sector to examine challenges and areas of opportunity for finance mobilization, innovative funding structures, and the role frontier technologies such as earth observation data and AI play in supporting transparency and enabling finance deployment. The session will highlight experiences and lessons learned illustrating catalytic effect of public funds, the role of private sector investment, and how ecosystem approaches can help ensure that financial flows are aligned with both environmental and nature-positive outcomes.

Monday, November 17, 2025

9:15 AM - 10:15 AM

Art4Climate: Children’s Visions for Nature, Education, and a Sustainable Future

Art4Climate is a global child climate art exhibit empowering young people from Canada and around the world to share their visions for a sustainable, biodiverse future through creativity. By amplifying youth perspectives, it positions children as knowledge producers, civic actors, and partners in advancing Canada’s and Brazil’s shared COP30 priorities: inclusive climate action, biodiversity protection, and intergenerational solidarity. Through art, children translate complex climate and nature issues into narratives that engage policymakers, educators, and civil society. The exhibit will feature selected works from the Art4Climate Global Virtual Gallery, supported by an online platform with QR access, ensuring global reach and inclusivity, while reflecting Canada’s commitment to innovation, human rights, and integrated climate solutions.

9:15 AM - 10:15 AM

Climate Futures: Canadian Children as Global Leaders

This session explores how education can empower children and youth to lead climate and biodiversity action locally and globally. It highlights Canada’s leadership in advancing environmental and climate education, reflected in the National Framework for Environmental Learning (NFEL) and Canada’s National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan (NBSAPs). The session also showcases the Global Child Climate Manifesto, a child-authored framework for collective climate action. Complementing the dialogue, the Art4Climate: Children’s Visions for a Sustainable Future exhibit will feature artwork from children across Canada and around the world, amplifying their voices through creativity and reflection. Together, these initiatives demonstrate how education, art, and intergenerational collaboration are nurturing a global generation of informed, connected, and courageous climate leaders.

10:45 AM - 11:30 AM

Canada at COP30: A Conversation with Civil Society

Climate impacts are becoming more frequent and severe, and the gap is widening between current plans and what’s needed for a safer future. Both within Canada and at the global level, civil society plays a critical role in driving forward climate action and ambition. Join us for a conversation between a high-level representative of the Canadian government and members of Climate Action Network Canada (CAN-Rac), Canada’s largest network of organizations working on climate and energy issues. In this bilingual discussion, moderated by CAN-Rac’s Executive Director Caroline Brouillette, civil society and government will share their priorities for COP30 and perspectives on the negotiations. This will be an opportunity to exchange ideas and questions on how Canada can play a constructive role at COP30—and on the work that needs to be done at home to set Canada up to succeed amid the global energy transition.

12:00 PM - 12:45 PM

Lighting the Path: Indigenous Fire Stewardship & Climate Leadership

Wildfire has become one of the defining climate challenges of our time, with impacts reaching across communities, ecosystems, and economies. In 2023, emissions from Canada’s wildfires surpassed those of global aviation, underscoring the urgency of re-centring knowledge systems and practices that have sustained landscapes since time immemorial. This session will convene Indigenous leaders, scientists, and practitioners in an engaging, participatory dialogue on how Indigenous Fire Stewardship strengthens climate resilience, biodiversity, and adaptation. Through dynamic exchange and audience interaction, the event will highlight Indigenous climate leadership and showcase how collaborative, relational approaches to land and fire can inform sustainable, whole-of-society action in Canada and globally.

2:30 PM - 3:15 PM

Climate Solutions Reimagined: Disrupting Destruction in a Ruthless Age

Presented by the First Nations Climate Initiative (FNCI), this panel explores how Indigenous-led innovation is driving climate action, economic resilience, and ecosystem restoration. Speakers will share how Nations are advancing self-determination through partnerships that link Canadian resources with global decarbonization efforts, and how nature-based solutions and carbon markets are revitalizing lands and cultures. The discussion will highlight the balance between environmental stewardship and economic opportunity, showcasing Indigenous leadership at the forefront of the global transition to a low-carbon future.

3:45 PM - 4:30 PM

Nature-Based Solutions for Climate and Health: Scaling Up Canadian and Global Innovation

Nature-based climate solutions only receive 3% of public climate finance, despite their potential to realize 30% of the world’s 2030 greenhouse gas reduction targets. At the same time, health professionals are increasingly catalyzing action to support nature-based solutions with co-benefits for health. This side event will feature a moderated dialogue with leaders in the field, including practical recommendations for policymakers and practitioners from the recent WHO-IUCN report on Nature-Based Solutions for Health, Canada's role at the forefront of the global nature prescribing movement and its intersection with Indigenous knowledges, lessons from community-led work in the Global South to effectively integrate nature-based solutions that improve healthcare, youth perspectives on the field, and insights on how government and policy-makers can create the conditions necessary for nature and human health to thrive.

Tuesday, November 18, 2025

9:30 AM - 10:00 AM

G7 Handover

10:00 AM - 10:45 AM

International Wildfire Cooperation in a Changing Climate: The Kananaskis Wildfire Charter

Fueled by climate change and drier conditions, wildfire seasons are becoming longer and more extreme. The need for stronger international coordination and a more integrated global response is growing. The Kananaskis Wildfire Charter is the first high level multilateral effort to build global capacity to prevent, respond and recover from wildfires. It identifies priority actions before, during and after fire, that countries can take on their own or in collaboration with others. The event will celebrate continued endorsement of the Charter and bring together like-minded countries to discuss its advancement

11:15 AM - 12:00 PM

Three Forests, One Voice: Indigenous Peoples’ Role in Forest Ecosystem Governance

Representatives from Indigenous groups and civil society from Canada, Africa, and Latin America will discuss the key role of Indigenous peoples and forest ecosystems in combating climate change and biodiversity loss. Panelists will share experiences, lessons learned, and potential solutions from the world's two largest tropical forests—the Amazon and Congo Basin—as well as Quebec's boreal forest in Canada. The panelists will explore the interconnections between climate and biodiversity to protect the environment and ensure a sustainable future, the role of forests as essential solutions—for both mitigation and adaptation—and the climate financing needed to support Indigenous peoples and protect forests as indispensable allies in the fight against climate change

12:15 PM - 1:00 PM

Taking Science and Policy Action on Ocean Acidification

Fisheries and Oceans Canada and the International Alliance to Combat Ocean Acidification are proud to present this event celebrating leadership in ocean acidification science and policy. The event will spotlight actions taken across countries and emphasize the importance of addressing ocean acidification as part of the broader blue economy, including for seafood sovereignty and the sustainability of coastal livelihoods. This event will open with a short film titled Changing Waters: Time for Action on Ocean Acidification and include a panel with national governments, the Tanzanian Fisheries Research Institute, and a representative of the Makah Tribal Organization sharing lessons learned in taking policy action on ocean acidification.

1:30 PM - 2:15 PM

Scaling North–South Partnerships through High-Integrity NbS, Finance, and Youth Leadership

This side event will explore how high-integrity nature-based solutions (NbS) can simultaneously deliver climate mitigation, biodiversity conservation, and livelihood benefits through stronger North–South partnerships. Building on Canada’s experience with Indigenous-led forest carbon projects, it will bring together experts and youth leaders from Canada, Africa, Asia, Europe, and the UNFCCC Secretariat. The discussion will examine how transparent finance, robust carbon accounting, and inclusive governance can scale NbS responsibly, especially under Article 6 of the Paris Agreement. A moderated dialogue featuring opening remarks by a Canadian Minister (pending availability) and panel discussions with international experts will highlight innovation, equity, and youth leadership as foundations of high-integrity NbS and global cooperation toward a resilient, low-carbon future.

2:30 PM - 3:15 PM

How restoration can power climate mitigation, resilience and biodiversity recovery

This panel will explore how restoring nature helps build climate change resilience and support biodiversity, including the recovery of species at risk. Speakers will share examples of restoration work happening across Canada and how Canadian organizations are contributing to similar efforts internationally. The discussion will feature voices from government, environmental groups and conservation practitioners, with an emphasis on inclusive conservation and the central role of Indigenous-led efforts underway in Canada. Panelists will highlight conservation activities underway in both terrestrial and marine ecosystems that are delivering meaningful results for nature and people.

3:45 PM - 4:30 PM

Granting Rights to Nature : A Solution for Climate Action

Through a Canadian and international perspective, this panel will present the advantages and challenges of recognizing the legal personhood of natural entities contributing to climate change adaptation and mitigation. It will highlight initiatives involving Indigenous peoples and local communities around waterways, who bear 80% of the effects of climate change (flooding, drought, ice melt). Canadian initiatives are pioneers in this field: the recognition of the Magpie/Mutehekau Shipu River by the Innu community, the process of recognizing the legal personality of Rice Lake by the Anishinaabeg Alderville First Nation, and the ongoing initiative of the St. Lawrence River demonstrate that this paradigm is not only relevant but also exportable to other contexts, including Lake Tota in Colombia and the Menor Lagoon in Spain.

4:45 PM - 5:30 PM

Indigenous Voices from Canada and Brazil: Self-Determination, Climate, and Prosperity

Following an open dialogue format, this panel brings together Indigenous leaders from Canada and Brazil to share perspectives on climate leadership, land rights, and self-determined development. It explores how Indigenous governance and autonomy drive climate resilience and economic prosperity, including through self-governance agreements, sustainable resource management, and biodiversity protection. Speakers will address policy developments, the duty to consult, and grassroots advocacy. With a strong focus on intergenerational dialogue and inclusive exchange, the session highlights Indigenous-led solutions as essential to achieving climate goals, advancing sustainable development, and shaping just climate futures.

Wednesday, November 19, 2025

9:30 AM - 10:15 AM

Indigenous Knowledge as Climate Innovation: Rethinking Risk, Impact, and Adaptation

This session explores how Indigenous Knowledge systems offer transformative approaches to climate innovation, challenging conventional definitions of risk, impact, and adaptation. Building on insights shared at Adaptation Futures 2025, this presentation highlights outcomes from the Indigenous Forum and the launch of the International Indigenous Adaptation Network — a new global platform connecting Indigenous researchers, communities, and allies. Through stories of cultural infrastructure, ecological stewardship, and Indigenous-led adaptation, the session demonstrates how Indigenous knowledge systems are not only vital to understanding climate change but essential to shaping resilient, equitable, and innovative pathways forward.

10:45 AM - 11:30 AM

Planning the energy system of the future: from biodiversity to climate risks

Achieving global energy, climate and biodiversity conservation targets simultaneously poses significant implications for land use. Using Canada as a case study, the 2025 IEA report Land-Use Competition between Biodiversity and Net Zero Goals highlights areas of potential land-use conflict and shows how the country can reach its 30% by 2030 target without significantly hindering the wind and solar development needed to achieve its net zero targets. The analysis identifies areas of overlap between renewable projects, critical mineral mining, and competing land uses. The report emphasizes that integrating land-use considerations into energy system planning can reduce negative biodiversity impacts and enhance co‑ordination across land-use priorities.

12:00 PM - 12:45 PM

Sustainable Agriculture: Advancing Mitigation, Adaptation, and Economic Resilience

This event will explore agriculture's achievements and ongoing efforts to advance climate solutions in Canada and globally. Panelists will showcase science-based approaches for tracking greenhouse gas emissions and environmental impacts, advancing adaptation, and scaling best management practices across regions and production systems. The discussion will also emphasize the importance of ensuring economic viability for farmers, recognizing their essential role in driving on-farm sustainability and long-term food system resilience.

3:15 PM - 4:00 PM

Just and localised nature-based solutions: a learning exchange from the front lines

Designing Nature-based Solutions (NbS) in ways that are inclusive and just is imperative, but it is not easy. Protecting biodiversity and ecosystems is fundamental to climate resilient development, and this is especially the case for Indigenous Peoples and local communities who depend directly on these ecosystems for their livelihoods, basic needs and identity. NbS are already incorporated in a relatively large number of Nationally Determined Contributions and National Adaptation Plans. However, despite recognition of their importance, NbS have been criticized for failing to account for livelihood and land use preferences of local communities, and at times undermining long standing territorial access and land rights. Based on concrete examples, this event will explore just and localized nature-based solutions, delving into both the value of implementing nature-based solutions at a local and regional level, as well as key considerations for operationalizing and implementing strategies on the ground.

3:45 PM - 4:30 PM

Building Climate-Resilient Parks: Global Impacts, Local Solutions

This session will critically examine the escalating global impacts of climate change on biodiversity, including the increasing frequency and intensity of extreme weather events, on vital public spaces such as parks and recreational facilities. The discussion will shift from identifying challenges to showcasing innovative, practical solutions to build resilience in this crucial sector.

4:45 PM - 5:30 PM

Canada’s Approach to Climate-Smart Agriculture: Collaboration for Sustainability

Canada has long been a leader in outcome-based agricultural regulation and innovation, supporting farmers to produce more with fewer resources while safeguarding the environment. This side event will showcase Canada’s domestic climate commitments, highlight successful partnerships between Canadian conservation groups, farmers and industry, and explore how Canada’s approaches can support global efforts to achieve sustainable and climate-resilient agriculture.

Thursday, November 20, 2025

9:30 AM - 10:15 AM

COP30-1240 [1240]

10:45 AM - 11:30 AM

COP30-1166 [1166]

12:00 PM - 12:45 PM

Canada’s Climate Finance for Global South Grassroots Action

Women’s rights organizations, women-led community organizations, and feminist movements are designing and delivering solutions that tackle the climate crisis on multiple fronts. With deep ties to their communities, they offer context-specific solutions that are built to last. Their focus on root causes means they have the ability to advance climate solutions, gender equality, and human rights simultaneously. And they get concrete results that improve lives. With funding from the Government of Canada, organizations like the Equality Fund, the Global Alliance for Green and Gender Action, and KAIROS support this grassroots, transformative climate action. This event will feature our Global South partners articulating their approach to climate action, the initiatives they lead and the results they have achieved.

1:15 PM - 2:00 PM

Agroecology, gender, and solidarity: concrete impacts of Canadian funding in West Africa

Discover the Feminist climate action in West Africa (ACF-AO) project*, a true success story showing how Canadian funding supports communities by linking climate, biodiversity, and gender equality, and promoting community-based solutions. The project is being implemented in the coastal and island areas of Ivory Coast, Senegal, Guinea-Bissau and Togo, where populations are among the most vulnerable to climate change, particularly women, who are often excluded from decision-making and governance. The project partners will present the results of their actions, demonstrating that ecological resilience requires not only the protection of ecosystems, but also the full participation of women, youth, and local communities in environmental governance. *Implemented by InterPares, SUCO and their partners, funded by Global Affairs Canada as part of P4C.

2:30 PM - 3:15 PM

From Knowledge to Action: Coastal NbS for Climate & Communities in the West Indian Ocean

Co-hosted by IUCN and Mission Inclusion, this event will highlight how the Regenerative Seascapes (ReSea) project, supported by Global Affairs Canada, is translating knowledge into action for climate adaptation in the Western Indian Ocean. Drawing on lessons from two years of implementation across Comoros, Kenya, Madagascar, Mozambique, and Tanzania, the panel will explore how locally led, gender-responsive, and evidence-based coastal Nature-based Solutions (NbS) can strengthen resilience, biodiversity, and livelihoods. It will also discuss key barriers and emerging solutions to scale their impact across the region and beyond.