the Nature Challenge Newsletter: Here today...extinct tomorrow

Don’t just sit there—do something!

Here are some ways to protect Canada’s biodiversity for the future:

Support stronger legislation to protect Canada’s species at risk. One of the most important ways to protect our animals is to strengthen and enforce existing laws.
Leave your car at home. Polar bears in northern Canada have less and less habitat each year due to global warming caused by the greenhouse gas emissions from our vehicles. Reducing dependence on cars also sends a powerful message for legislators to limit urban sprawl.
Our food choices affect animals in some surprising ways. For example, eating locally grown food that doesn’t need to be shipped long distances reduces greenhouse gases that are warming animal habitat as far away as the Arctic.
Stop using pesticides in your garden and lawn. The chemicals can harm small children and pets who play in your yard. The runoff from rainwater may also contaminate drinking water.
Plant trees in your yard that support native birds, and grow native plants that encourage pollinators such as bees and butterflies that help crops. For more information: http://www.seeds.ca/proj/poll/
Next time you’re out shopping, say no to plastic bags. Many marine animals and birds eat plastic bags littering the sea and die.
Volunteer and work with wildlife in your area. Wildlife centres may be in need of volunteers, and working for a good cause may be the perfect way for your family to spend time together: