Protecting shorelines in Canadian Indigenous communities: Environmental challenges, policy interventions, and...

There is growing concern regarding the environmental protection of shorelines in Canadian Indigenous communities, as these regions face increasing threats from pollution and environmental degradation. This review examines various types of pollution affecting coastal Indigenous communities, such as oil spills, plastic waste, industrial runoff, and other contaminants. The impacts of pollution extend beyond environmental harm, affecting Indigenous cultures, economies, and traditional ways of life, particularly those tied to subsistence fisheries and marine resource use. The review also explores the complex regulatory landscape governing coastal pollution in Canada, encompassing federal, provincial, and territorial regulations, and their implications for Indigenous communities. Despite these regulatory frameworks, many Indigenous communities face significant challenges in protecting their shoreline environments, including inadequate resources, insufficient infrastructure, limited access to specialized training, and exclusion from key decision-making processes related to environmental management. To address these concerns, this review evaluates current strategies for pollution prevention, response, and mitigation-particularly those targeting sources such as petroleum pollution-and emphasizes the need for policies that integrate Indigenous knowledge and priorities. Recommendations tailored to the specific needs of Indigenous communities, such as enhanced community-led monitoring programs and improved engagement in regulatory frameworks, are proposed to ensure the long-term protection and sustainability of Canada's shoreline resources.