The Rights of the Tree (Terrasse-Vaudreuil)

A far-reaching municipal commitment to the protection of the tree canopy in Terrasse-Vaudreuil

On 9 June 2026, the Terrasse-Vaudreuil Town Council adopted a resolution entitled ‘Municipal Commitment to the Protection of the Tree Canopy and the Recognition of the Fundamental Rights of Trees’. 

Through this resolution, the Town Council proclaims its adherence to the Universal Declaration of the Rights of Trees and its commitment to the protection of trees, which are essential to life on Earth, as well as to the fight against climate change. The Town Council goes a step further: it directly recognises trees as living beings deserving of protection, including the rights to life, natural growth, integrity and regeneration. 

This initiative was driven by a citizens’ movement spearheaded by director André Desrochers. Following the screening of his documentary “Des arbres et des arts”, the idea arose to recognise the rights of trees in the Quebec municipality. The film explores our relationship with trees through a journey through the forests of the Suroît region in Montérégie. Through a skilful blend of reflection, rights and art, the documentary invites us to reflect on the recognition of the rights of nature.

A world first

Terrasse-Vaudreuil is the first municipality in the world to pass a resolution of this kind. The driving force behind the Universal Declaration of the Rights of Trees initiative is Ricardo Rey, the author and driving force behind this petition, who was astonished to hear the news of this endorsement.  

This initiative sets an important precedent, paving the way for numerous communities in Quebec, Canada and around the world to move towards a paradigm shift that involves moving beyond the view of trees as mere objects, and recognising them as living beings with inherent rights. 

For our president, Yenny Vega Cárdenas, “this resolution highlights the strength of local government and its ability to act in accordance with the principle of subsidiarity, which is one of the pillars of sustainable development. By demonstrating boldness in the protection of the local area, Terrasse-Vaudreuil is, through this gesture, inviting other local stakeholders to commit to this path.”
Photo du Conseil municipal de Terrasse-Vaudreuil lors de l'adoption de la résolution.
Photo du Conseil municipal de Terrasse-Vaudreuil lors de l'adoption de la résolution.
Photo de l'article de Joshua Allan dans le journal The 1019 Report.
Photo de l'article de Joshua Allan dans le journal The 1019 Report.
Photo de l'article de Joshua Allan dans le journal The 1019 Report.
Photo de l'article de Joshua Allan dans le journal The 1019 Report.

Documents of interest 

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