Have you ever said something like that? Many people want to connect with nature but don’t know where to start. Others want to do more to protect the nature they love, but feel overwhelmed by issues like global warming, deforestation, energy demands, and urban expansion.
Here are 10 ways you can connect with nature and help to protect it. How many of these things have you done already?
Start small by taking a moment out of your day to smell the flowers. Listen to the birds. Read a book or take a photograph.
On your own or as part of a group, take a hike, go birdwatching, take kayaking lessons or check out a wildlife festival in your area. Find out what your local nature club is doing this month and sign up for an outing.
Nature clubs exist on the local, provincial and national level. Nature Canada is one national charity you can join. On our web site you’ll find a list of provincial nature clubs who can tell you about local clubs in your community.
Ready to tell others what you think? A good start is to send a letter to an elected official, CEO of a corporation, leader of a nature group or other public figure.
There are many nature charities that could use your support. If you choose to give to a nature group, often the most cost effective way is through monthly giving. It reduces the amount of paper and processing time, freeing up resources that can go directly to protecting nature.
Writing a letter to the editor means others will read and perhaps be influenced by the words you write. Climate change, oil drilling in the Arctic, endangered species – these are all issues that Canadians can and should debate publicly.
Show your love for nature by being an example to others. Buy recycled products, locally grown food, a fuel-efficient car (or better yet a bus pass!) and energy efficient appliances.
Thousands of volunteers across Canada are making a difference. Give your time to a local nature preservation society or other nature group.
Double-side your photocopies. Ask for subsidized transit passes. Choose suppliers who have adopted green business practices. There are plenty of ways you can influence the impact your workplace has on nature.
If you are already doing the things on this list, then you’ve taken important steps toward adopting a nature ethic. Congratulations, and thank you for protecting nature!
|
