3 things to consider on Earth Day

We know that as a nature lover, we don’t need to convince you why protecting the places we love is important. But Earth Day offers us a chance to reflect on our natural world, so here are our top three must-know facts to consider:

#1: Currently only 10.7 percent of Ontario’s lands and inland waters are officially protected! We still have a long way to go if Canada is to fulfill its commitment to the United Nations target of protecting 17 percent by 2020.

#2: Protected places help mitigate climate change, provide us with clean air and water, support Indigenous knowledge and value systems, and are safe havens for wild species. Ontario currently has more than 200 species at risk, many of which are threatened by habitat loss. And every $1 we invest in protected places yields a $6 return.

#3: Protected places make Ontario special – a place we’re proud to call home. Think about some of your best memories and experiences. I’m willing to bet that many of them were on protected lakes, rivers, forests and beaches. And I’m willing to bet you’ll stand with us to protect more of those wild spaces we’re blessed to have.

Celebrate Earth Day by signing our Protected Places Declaration asking the governments of Ontario and Canada to meet our international promise.

Anne Bell is Ontario Nature's Director of Conservation and Education.