Environmental Damages Fund
The Environmental Damages Fund (EDF) is a Government of Canada program administered by Environment and Climate Change Canada. The Fund receives money from fines, penalties, court orders, and voluntary payments for environmental violations. This money is used to support projects that will benefit Canada’s natural environment, usually in the area where the violation occurred.
The Fund invests in projects falling within 4 funding categories:
- Restoration
- Environmental quality improvement
- Research and development, and
- Education and awareness
Since 1995, more than $275 million has been invested in over 600 projects benefiting ecosystems and communities across Canada.
Explore the Environmental Damages Fund
What is the Environmental Damages Fund
Learn about the EDF and how it is used to fund priority projects that will benefit Canada’s natural environment.
Funded projects map
Explore current and completed projects funded under the EDF.
Climate Action and Awareness Fund
Find out how the Climate Action and Awareness Fund (CAAF), created through the EDF, is investing up to $206 million using the largest fine ever received by the program.
Funds designated for use in Qukin ʔamakʔis (Elk Valley)
Learn about the co-developed approach to distribute $58 million for environmental projects in Qukin ʔamakʔis (Elk Valley).
Success stories from the Environmental Damages Fund
Learn how EDF funded projects are delivering tangible, lasting benefits across Canada.
Apply for funding
The EDF generally issues one to two calls for applications each year. Explore the information in this section to learn more about the process.
How to apply for funding
Find out if you are eligible to receive funding and how to write an application.
Available funds
Get updates on the current funds available in the EDF.
News releases
The EDF news releases and announced projects can be found below.
- Canada’s Environmental Damages Fund marks 30 years with 23 new nature conservation and restoration projects (December 15, 2025)
- Government of Canada and Ktunaxa Nation launch an approach to distribute $58 million for environmental projects in the Kootenay Region of British Columbia (March 13, 2025)
- The federal government invests over $3 million in active transportation projects in Quebec (March 13, 2025)
- Canada’s Environmental Damages Fund supports 22 vital nature conservation and restoration projects (February 17, 2025)
- Protecting nature at the Massé Stream in Montérégie, part of $6.7 million in national habitat protection (August 8, 2023)
- Nearly $4.4 million available for projects in Quebec that will reduce air pollution from transportation by improving urban mobility (October 11, 2023)
- Government of Canada commits $12.5 million in funding in new collaboration with philanthropic organizations to support environmental literacy projects across Canada (October 4, 2023)
- The Government of Canada invests in science and technology projects supporting the goal of net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050 (November 23, 2022)
- Government of Canada supports Science North’s newly opened innovative climate change experience for young Canadians (July 8, 2022)
- The Manitoba Metis Federation takes on two climate action initiatives with about $5 million in support from the Government of Canada (June 29, 2021)
- Marking World Environment Day, Canada invests up to $55 million in 58 local climate action projects (June 4, 2021)
- Government of Canada invests $4.4 million in climate action and awareness for young Canadians (May 19, 2021)
- Government of Canada invests $6 million in climate action and education for young Canadians (April 9, 2021)
Contact us
For general questions, enquiries, and news about the EDF, including future funding opportunities, please contact Environment and Climate Change Canada.
Toll-free: 1-800-668-6767
Email: enviroinfo@ec.gc.ca