World Rivers Day, September 25th, is a global day of celebration of our rivers and wetlands. The Green Party of Canada urges all Canadians to get involved in the numerous events happening in communities across the country. “Many Canadians are taking part in activities such as shore clean-ups, invasive plant removal, art exhibits, fishing demonstrations and other celebrations. It is wonderful to remind ourselves of the importance of our fresh water systems and re-connect with our local watershed,” said Leader Elizabeth May, MP for Saanich-Gulf Islands.
World Rivers Day is in partnership with the UN Water for Life Decade initiative with the goal of increasing public awareness and improving stewardship of rivers.
Canada encompasses one of the Earth’s most freshwater-abundant regions, with 9% of the world’s renewable water. “Fresh water is our lifeblood. We must steward our fresh water resources for this and future generations,” said May. “Sustainable communities need healthy watersheds.”
The Green Party is committed to responsible water stewardship. That includes protecting watersheds from industrial and urban activities and restoring those that have been damaged by such activities. We advocate a renewed federal government role in water management, focused on strong regulations and programs created in collaboration with provincial and municipal governments. When it comes to our vision for fresh water, the Green message is clear: Keep it. Conserve it. Protect it.