Celebrating World Nature Conservation Day!

Did you know that Sunday July 28 was World Nature Conservation Day? This special day recognizes the importance of the ecosystems and natural resources that sustain life on our planet. All species on Earth depend on healthy habitats to survive and grow, making it vital we protect and preserve them. Take a look at a few facts about the state of nature in Canada today:

  • Canada is home to 28% of the world’s boreal forest and 25% (all in B.C) of its temperature forest
  • Only 13% of Canada’s forests are legally protected or restricted for other reasons such as ecological reserves or traditional land use
  • Only 13.7% of land and freshwater in Canada is conserved and only 12.8% is classified as protected, and the rate of increasing conservation is on the decline (read more here)
  • As of 2020, of the 50 thousand+ species measured in Canada, 873 are considered critically endangered mostly due to HUMAN activity  

The natural world around us keeps us alive and sustains us, and now more than ever it needs our help!

So…what can YOU do to help with nature conservation??? Start simply, right in your own home and neighbourhood!

And, did you know that ACER has been helping communities conserve and protect nature for over 30 years through our community workshops and training sessions; our field and classroom resources; and our tree planting and monitoring programs? Learn more about our programs here!

Examples of actions you can take starting TODAY if you are not already doing so: 

  • DONATE (HERE) TO ACER TODAY! Every little bit helps us continue our important work in the community!
  • PLANT A TREE!
  • Remember the first of the “three R’s”: REDUCE! Especially PLASTICS!
  • Reuse or repurpose household items whenever possible
  • Recycle (worst-case) according to local guidelines
  • Keep on top of what’s in your fridge and pantry to try to eliminate food waste
  • Turn off water taps and lights or power bars when not in use
  • Compost food scraps
  • Pick up and properly dispose of litter in local parks and green spaces
  • When you can, carpool or better yet take public transit or your bike to reduce CO2 emissions 
  • Donate rather than discard used items
  • Plant a pollinator garden (also check out our June 2024 blog post celebrating international pollinator week – https://www.acer-acre.ca/blog/celebrating-pollinator-week) 
  • Get involved in community conservation efforts and add your voice to appeals to local governments to protect our lands and waters

“You are not Atlas carrying the world on your shoulder. It is good to remember that the planet is carrying you.”– Vandana Shiva, Environmentalist, Activist and Scientist 

Thank you and Happy Summer from the ACER Team!

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