FREDERICTON (GNB) – The following message was issued today by Environment and Local Government Minister Serge Rousselle in recognition of Earth Day, Sunday April 22:

New Brunswick is proud to join the international community in celebrating Earth Day 2018. This year marks the 26th anniversary of Earth Day in Canada. The organizers invite people to adopt healthy behaviours and reduce the amount of plastic waste they produce, under the theme Consume Less, Play More.

The pollution created by plastic waste is a threat to the environment and to humans. Turning away from the excessive consumption cycle to encourage outdoor activities with family and friends is the key to sustainability.

Your government is committed to protecting the environment and ensuring a greener future for New Brunswick children. To do this, it must educate people about the protection of the environment and ensure that public parks and natural areas are accessible to them so they can spend as much time outdoors as possible. By participating in the largest environmental event in the world, New Brunswick is demonstrating its commitment to help protect the planet. More than a billion people in 192 countries are taking part in Earth Day activities, and we are proud to be among them.

Your government understands that people care about protecting the environment. That is why we are investing in environmental awareness, waste management and the creation of sustainable communities.

On Earth Day, I invite New Brunswickers to think about how they can participate in the various activities happening across the province.

Our rivers, beaches, and forests deserve to be celebrated every day of the year by adopting ecological habits that help protect and enhance our air, soil, and water resources for present and future generations. Our children deserve it.

More information about Earth Day 2018 is available online.