June 5, 2019 – Ottawa, Ontario

Canadians know that forests are vital to our future. Forests are “the lungs of the world,” producing oxygen we need to breathe and cleaning the air and water. They are also home to an abundance of plants, animals and other species. Investing in Canada’s forests creates a natural legacy for generations of Canadians.

Keeping forests healthy is also one of the best ways to fight climate change, because they absorb carbon pollution and protect against erosion in flood zones. However, forests are at risk as climate change increases the frequency, duration and intensity of forest fires, which release carbon dioxide back into the atmosphere, put communities at risk, and contaminate the air that we breathe.

In recognition of World Environment Day, Catherine McKenna, Minister of Environment and Climate Change, and Paul Lefebvre, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Natural Resources, announced today that the Government of Canada intends to invest up to $15 million over four years to support Forests Ontario’s 50 Million Tree Program. This funding will help Forests Ontario deliver on its vision to plant 50 million trees by 2025.

Planting trees is a practical and affordable way for landowners to increase their property value, invest in their community, and contribute to a healthy environment for wildlife and people to enjoy—now and for the future.