QUEBEC: Government Unveils Quebec Water Strategy 2018-2030

On June 27, 2018, The Minister of Sustainable Development, the Environment and the Fight Against Climate Change, Isabelle Melançon, unveiled the Quebec Water Strategy for 2018-2030 and its accompanying 2018-2023 action plan. The plan includes major investments of more than $550 million and the establishment of the Quebec Water Council - aimed at democratizing the management of the resource.

The Québec Water Strategy is guided by seven key principles:

• ensure quality water for the population;
• protect and restore aquatic environments;
• improve prevention and management of water-related risks;
• capitalize on the economic potential of water;
• promote the sustainable use of water;
• acquire and share the best knowledge about water; and
• ensure and strengthen the integrated management of water resources.

The 2018-2023 action plan outlines 63 measures to be implemented by eleven government departments and agencies. In addition to the creation of the Quebec Water Council, the main measures outlined include:

• improving management of water-related risks, including floods ($53 million);
• conserving and restoring aquatic environments ($32 million);
• ensuring access to sufficient quality water, including through the Enhanced Drinking Water Source Protection Program ($34 million); and
• implementing a mobilization program for the reduction of water pollution by single-use plastics (e.g. reducing the use of plastic straws) ($3 million).

The Quebec Water Strategy 2018-2030 will be implemented through three successive action plans that will further define specific measures. The 2018-2023 Action Plan sets the foundation for the Strategy.

Access the 2018-2030 Quebec Water Strategy and the 2018-2023 Action Plan (Fr.)

Canadian Water and Wastewater Association