Vision and Mandate

Nunavummiut – supported by the Department of Environment – protect, promote and enhance the sustainable use of our environment and its natural and cultural resources. This is done by maintaining healthy ecosystems, viable animal populations, enjoyable parks, and a clean environment, by educating the public, and by creating healthy and prosperous communities.

Avatittinnik Kamatsiarniq

Avatittinnik Kamatsiarniq, the Inuit Qaujimajatuqangit principle of Environmental Stewardship, emphasizes the key relationship between people and the natural world. For centuries, Nunavummiut have lived sustainably by showing respect and care for the land, animals and environment.

The Department of Environment supports the sustainable use of natural resources today by promoting the adoption of Avatittinnik Kamatisiarniq territory-wide. To help incorporate the Inuit system of beliefs, values and principles into our work, the Department of Environment has established an Elders Advisory Committee, whose task is to advise the Minister of Environment on matters relating to wildlife and environmental stewardship.

What does Avatittinnik Kamatsiarniq mean to you?

The concept of Environmental Stewardship means different things to different people all over the world. Although our approaches to protecting and conserving the environment change through the generations, the underlying values of respect and care remain the same.

Here are a few examples of what Avatittinnik Kamatsiarniq means to Nunavummiut across the territory. What does it mean to you? Write to environment@gov.nu.ca with your ideas, and receive an eco-friendly gift from the Department!

"Protecting and respecting the land and environment for future generations" - Simon Awa, Iqaluit

"It means not littering and keeping the land free of garbage" - Charlene Beanish, Kugluktuk

"From our ancestors we were always told to respect the land... What you do to the land, the land will do to you." - Mariano Aupilardjuk, Rankin Inlet

"For me it means showing respect for everything including the land, sea and animals." Myna Ishulutak, Iqaluit