Environmental Protection

Protecting Canada’s Environment

“They paved paradise/And put up a parking lot.”

These lyrics by Canadian folk musician Joni Mitchell became a rallying cry to environmentalists when Mitchell’s song Big Yellow Taxi became a hit in 1970.

But the movement to protect Canada’s pristine rivers, lakes, and land could arguably be traced to 1885 when Banff became the first National Park of Canada and the world’s third.

Environmental protection has since become a major issue in Canada. Across the country, individuals, businesses, communities, and governments take measures – from recycling to establishing nature reserves and parks – to help preserve natural resources.

Law protects the natural conditions of national and provincial parks as well as other conservation areas.

Canada has also enacted environmental policy to protect its land, water, air, plants, and animals. Government initiatives, such as Canadian Environment Week, promote environmental activities among Canadians.

Nonetheless, a growing number of species are at risk of extinction, and water and air quality has diminished because of pollution. Climate change is also a major concern in Canada.

This section is about protecting the environment.