Parks ministers collaborate to maximize economic, health benefits of parks
Toronto, Ontario, February 28, 2014
Canada’s parks ministers have committed to work together to creatively and collaboratively inspire Canadians to experience nature through parks in ways that support their health and well-being.
The action was prompted by the first-ever comprehensive evidence-based report in Canada that chronicles the many proven benefits of spending time in nature.
Developed by the Canadian Parks Council, Connecting Canadians with Nature: An investment in the well-being of our Citizens pulls together an increasing body of research that demonstrates the immense benefits of connecting with the natural world. The benefits are broken down into six key areas:
- the economy;
- physical and mental health;
- spirit and cultural identity;
- personal development;
- the welfare of communities; and
- the environment.
In a joint statement released at the Meeting of Federal-Provincial-Territorial Ministers Responsible for Parks, with the exception of Quebec*, held in Toronto, Canada’s park leaders committed to innovate, diversify and adapt the country’s park offerings to meet the changing needs of families, and to work with various sectors of Canadian society – municipalities, school teachers, health practitioners, business leaders, community builders, tourism operators – to support experiences in nature that enhance Canadians’ collective health, prosperity, growth and productivity.
During the meeting, the ministers further agreed to collaborate in developing a passport to parks, to build on existing digital tools that make it easier for Canadians to visit their parks and share best practices to expand programs such as learn-to-camp activities in more jurisdictions.
*The Quebec Government does not subscribe to the “Connecting Canadians with Nature” initiative. One of the initiative’s main objectives, which consists of improving public health and wellness through outdoor recreation activities and thereby supporting decreased health costs, falls within the exclusive jurisdiction of Quebec, particularly in regards to health promotion. However, Quebec will participate in the exchange of information regarding, among others, best practices in park management and promotion.
Office of the Minister of the Environment
819-997-1441
Bill Anderson
Press Secretary
Alberta Tourism, Parks, and Recreation
Cell: 780-974-5548
Andrew Donnachie
Press Secretary
Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources
416-314-2198
Canadian Parks Council
Dawn Carr, Executive Director
(705) 806-0391 / 888-502-1737
Since 1962, federal provincial and territorial governments have collaborated through the Canadian Parks Council (CPC) to promote excellence in parks and protected areas management, to advance park and protected area values and interests, and to encourage cooperation and mutual support among member agencies.
