Despite all the evidence to its benefits, the sad truth is people don’t spend enough time in nature, especially young people.
However, not only health experts and sports and recreation leaders are concerned by more sheltered, indoor lifestyles. So too are conservationists, because spending more time in nature creates an engaged public, and hopefully one who cares about the wellbeing of our environment.
Canada, with its bountiful natural resources and vast lands, is a particularly key area for such conservation interests, including groups internationally. Igner Andersen, a Danish economist, the new director general for the International Union for Conservation of Nature, says Canada has the potential to be a national leader.
This can only happen though through programs which encourage people, especially young people, to get outside and experience nature.
“We need to look at nature based solutions. How can nature work for us; how can we work for nature. We have to inspire the next generation – the decision-makers of tomorrow – so that they too feel and understand the imperative of conservation, which is absolutely critical.” – Igner Anderson, director general for the International Union for Conservation of Nature
Read more about how Canada could be at the forefront of creating the next generation of conservationists in Canadian Wildlife magazine, Sep + Oct 2015 edition.