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.

“The goal of planting 50 million trees across Ontario is inspiring, and I am proud our government can support Forests Ontario’s vision. By funding this tree-planting program, we are investing in clean air, a healthier environment, and more resilient communities as our climate changes. Projects like these support good local jobs and make our economy stronger while leaving an important natural legacy for our kids and grandkids to enjoy.”
– Catherine McKenna, Minister of Environment and Climate Change

“Healthy forests are essential to keep our air clean, our communities safe, and our economy strong. I was disappointed by the Government of Ontario’s decision to cut funding for this valuable program, and am proud to see the Government of Canada step up. This is a practical and affordable way to support middle class jobs and small businesses like nurseries across the province, while investing in vibrant communities and a better future.”
– Paul Lefebvre, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Natural Resources

“The Government of Canada’s support for the Forests Ontario tree planting program demonstrates an understanding of the important contribution trees make to our lives and the environment. This funding ensures that the momentum and good work of Forests Ontario and our planting partners will be maintained. This is important ‘seed money’ to be matched by others—an approach that is embraced by our organization. In the immediate term, it means the investments made by nurseries and others will not be lost.”
– Rob Keen, Registered Professional Forester and CEO of Forests Ontario

• June 5 is an international day of recognition to appreciate clean air, increase awareness of how we contribute to air pollution, and promote ways in which we can individually and collectively reduce air pollution around the world.

• Over the last four decades, the world’s forests have absorbed a quarter of all carbon pollution produced by human activity.

• Research shows that 40% forest cover is required for an ecosystem to maintain its health. Currently, central/southern Ontario has an average of 26% forest cover with some areas as low as 5%.

• The funding for Forests Ontario, subject to funding agreements, will be administered through Natural Resources Canada using a portion of Ontario’s Low Carbon Economy Leadership Fund allocation.

• The Government of Canada is working to double the amount of nature protected across Canada's lands and oceans and has launched the $1.3 billion Nature Legacy—the single-largest investment to protect nature in Canadian history.

• The Government of Ontario announced it was cancelling funding for Forests Ontario in April 2019.

Associated links

• Pan-Canadian Framework on Clean Growth and Climate Change
• Low Carbon Economy Fund
• About the Canadian Forest Service
• 50 Million Tree Program

Sabrina Kim
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of Environment and Climate Change
819-743-7138
sabrina.kim2@canada.ca

Media Relations
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ec.media.ec@canada.ca

Vanessa Adams
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of Natural Resources
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Vanessa.Adams@canada.ca

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