OTTAWA, March 21, 2016 /CNW/ - The Honourable Jim Carr, Minister of Natural Resources Canada, made the following statement in recognition of the United Nations' International Day of Forests, which this year focuses on the relationship between forests and freshwater.
"I am pleased to join Canadians in celebrating the International Day of Forests. Canada's forests are an important part of our nation's history, are vital to our environment, society and economy, and will continue to play an essential role in our future.
"In addition to being home to almost 10 percent of the world's forests, Canada is also endowed with close to nine percent of the world's renewable water supply. Through science, we are expanding our knowledge and understanding of the vital relationship between healthy forests and water.
"Forests are a dominant feature of the Canadian landscape. With 348 million hectares of forests, including 166 million hectares of certified sustainably managed forests — more than any other country in the world — Canadians can be assured that our forests are managed sustainably and will continue to provide multiple benefits to our society.
"Canada is proud of its record in sustainable forest management and the protection of our forest resources. Less than 0.2 percent of Canada's forests are harvested annually, and all forests on public land must be successfully regenerated following harvest.
"The Government of Canada is committed to working with our provincial and territorial counterparts, Indigenous peoples and other key stakeholders to ensure the sustainability of Canada's forests.
"I encourage you to read the 25th edition of the State of Canada's Forest Report, which provides additional information on the importance of forests and forestry in Canada."
Quick Facts
- In 2015, Canada exported nearly $33 billion in forest products to nearly every nation, supporting approximately 290,000 direct and indirect jobs in Canada.
- Canada's forested lands are equal to the combined area of United Kingdom, Germany, France, Italy, Sweden, Nicaragua, Ghana, Cameroon, Cambodia, Japan and South Korea.
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SOURCE Natural Resources Canada
Media may contact: Laurel Munroe, Director of Communications, Office of Canada's Minister of Natural Resources, 343-292-6837; Media Relations, Natural Resources Canada, Ottawa, 343-292-6100
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