Ottawa, ON – (April 22, 2014) – This Earth Day, Tree Canada would like to commend Canadians on an impressive show of support for the planet and encourage them to pay it forward all year long.
“It can be easy to take advantage of our planet and its resources,” said Michael Rosen, Tree Canada President. “Earth Day makes us pause and appreciate what we have. For over 30 years, this day has spurred Canadians to participate in activities, and re-examine their relationship with the planet. We’d like to see the enthusiasm and commitment from this day be exhibited on a daily basis.”
As Canada’s only national tree-focused not-for-profit, Tree Canada is committed to growing a better planet by encouraging the planting, protection and care of trees. Tree Canada believes trees are integral to the health of the planet, and all creatures that live on it. Trees provide food for humans and animals, reduce noise pollution, mitigate the effects of carbon dioxide, and provide shelter for wildlife.
To build healthier communities, Tree Canada emphasizes stewardship and education, in the belief that educating younger generations about the importance of trees and how to properly care for them, will ensure the health and vitality of Canada’s trees and forests for generations to come.
“We believe that trees are a critical part of the health of not just the planet, but for all life on it,” Rosen said. “We invite the people who support and share Earth Day to join us in the coming year. Let’s build on this enthusiasm to support the planet, and really emphasize the critical role trees play in its health, as well as ours.”
Canadians can pay it forward by participating in Tree Canada activities including:
- 10,000 Tree Challenge: Contribute a tree to the 10,000 Tree Challenge. By supporting this initiative, you can help offset the carbon produced by about 1,700 mid-sized cars in a year!
- Tree Canada Urban planting programs: Working with our partners, we’re bringing urban forestry to Canadians. Since more than 80 per cent of Canadians live in urban areas and trees can help create better, cleaner air, the presence of trees in cities and towns is of utmost importance to Canadians’ health.
- National Tree Day: A celebration of trees will be held in communities across Canada on Wednesday, September 24. Emphasis for the day will be on stewardship and education. With many communities and schools participating, we can educate younger generations about the importance of trees and how to properly and responsibly care for them.
September 24, 2014 will mark the fourth annual National Tree Day—a day to honour trees and to remember how important they are to our planet, environment and communities. For more information on initiatives and upcoming events, or to learn how you can create your own National Tree Day event, please visit the National Tree Day website.
(TREE CANADA)