Our Motivation and Expertise in Water Conservation

Twelve years ago, when the de Gaspé Beaubien grandchildren first suggested that the Foundation take action on water conservation, Philippe and Nan-b were skeptical. After all, Canada is known for its plentiful water supply, so why should they bother? Nan-b explains: “At first, the notion seemed a bit outrageous. Yet after further investigation and research, we understood the urgent need to take action. We realized that our grandchildren were right: we better do something about the water situation!”

A crisis years in the making

Thirty years ago, scientists and experts warned us about the looming danger of a water crisis and the effects of the climate crisis. Now, Canada and other countries are confronted with these pressing issues, seeing their impact on the environment with devastating storms, huge wildfires, and catastrophic flooding. Had we heeded their alerts earlier, perhaps we would have been better prepared to face today's challenge. 

According to the United Nations, in the next 6 years, an estimated 40% of the global population will lack access to safe drinking water. This lack of resources means far more than just having something for your morning coffee - without access to fresh water, there will be massive migration due to populations' inability to drink or feed themselves. It’s a catastrophic situation that none of us are prepared for or want to see occur, and one we must take proactive steps to address now!

Canada is no exception

Canada is home to 20% of the world's fresh water reserve. However, this precious resource is not infinitely renewable; only 1% is renewed each year. 

Actions must be taken to preserve our planet's most essential resource, conserving and revitalizing our freshwater supply. Yet, when it comes to water utilisation, Canada doesn't have much to be proud of - Canadians water consumption is one of the highest in the world. (Habits have to change on every level; individual, regional, national, and societal.)

Given its unique situation, Canada has the opportunity to become a leader in water conservation – we can use our privileged position to ensure other nations have equitable access to clean water, as well as provide a more sustainable model for water conservation practices and a blue economy. From research to technology-driven practices, someone must become a leader in protecting this invaluable resource. Why not us?

The role of governments

In a world facing such water-related issues, governments must look beyond the next election cycle to adequately address this prolonged crisis. Current short-term solutions are not enough. Governments are often reluctant to take risks due to their limited terms in office — leaving water as a crucial issue unaddressed. 

Our elected representatives have to act! Legislations must be created and investments must be made relating to any and all expertises in water conservation - such as:

• Investing in water infrastructures
• Improving installations and processes
• Build a Canada Water Agency
• Renew the Canada Water Act
• Introduce a Canada Water Fund

The role of the de Gaspé Beaubien Foundation 

According to Nan-b de Gaspé Beaubien: “When we first started discussing water issues, many people were puzzled. No one wanted to talk with us. They said: ‘There’s no issue, there’s no problem. Why are you doing this? No need to get involved in water.’ But we saw the issue and we saw that Canada was not playing the leadership role it could.”

Therefore, in 2015, the de Gaspé Beaubien Foundation decided to step up and take on the mantle of "risk takers" the governments weren’t willing to uphold. Exploring innovative solutions and expertise in water conservation, AquaAction was born! 

“For us, part of the solutions resides in innovation and creativity and technologies. That’s why, with AquaAction, we help founding companies that solve problems related to water conservation. As of today, we are now working with 55 companies across Canada! They are developing real solutions to the water problems. This has an enormous impact both on an ecological standpoint and economical standpoint.”

From our family to yours

The de Gaspé Beaubien family came together, determined to become part of the solution and preserve this precious resource for generations to come. 

“We want to inform all the families in Canada about the water crisis and its issues like our grand-children informed our family. We’ve been doing so for over a decade and we will continue to do so as long as needed.” - Nan-b de Gaspé Beaubien

“We’re all involved.”

The whole de Gaspé Beaubien family is actively participating in the Foundation. “Some are more involved than others, like François, our youngest son, is now Chair of AquaAction. Even though some are more involved than others, everyone knows what's going on.” 

The younger generation is striving for more. To support this ambition, a youth committee is being created as part of the Foundation board and giving them a key role. It’s essential to include young people in these conversations as they have an understanding of what current issues look like and how they can be addressed. They have a unique connection to the future, and it's important their voices are heard. We all have a part to play - so let’s listen to the ones on the front lines.

Climate change, unsuitable infrastructures, consequences of water pollution, overconsumption – these are only some of the threats faced by our fresh water supplies. But together, we can work to protect this precious resource before it's too late. By taking action and working together, we can preserve clean and plentiful water sources for this generation and future ones. Want to know more or discuss these issues? Contact us.