WWF's famous panda mascot engaged crowds at key hotspots like Burrard and Stadium-Chinatown Skytrain Station.
VANCOUVER, April 23, 2025 /CNW/ - Would you race a panda in the name of conservation? Hundreds of Vancouver commuters did just that as they travelled through high-traffic areas like Burrard and Stadium-Chinatown Skytrain stations this Earth Day.
World Wildlife Fund Canada (WWF-Canada) held a series of playful 'panda pop-up' stair climb challenges throughout Vancouver yesterday to raise awareness for the second annual WWF BC Place Climb for Nature, presented by Aviso, on May 10. The environmental org's iconic panda was encouraging nature and fitness lovers of all ages to take on the 3,000 steps of the stadium in support of critical conservation work in B.C. and across Canada.
Enthusiastic Vancouverites, including AC/DC concertgoers, took turns going toe-to-toe with the WWF's beloved panda mascot in exchange for high-fives, WWF swag and free registration for the fundraising event. The surprise pop-ups throughout the city generated competitiveness and camaraderie. To relax after the buzz, Panda stretched it out at One Yoga Vancouver.
Panda was joined by human Alex Portman, Head of Corporate Partnerships at WWF-Canada, who took turns competing with members of the crowd.
"We were blown away by the passion and energy of last year's participants, some as young as five. It was the first time we'd brought the Climb for Nature to the West Coast, and we heard over and over again how thrilled people were to have a way to get involved and support wildlife here in Vancouver. Their love for nature and willingness to make a difference for at-risk species leaves us constantly inspired," Portman said.
"We're excited to bring the Climb for Nature back to Vancouver and hope to make this year's climb at BC Place even more impactful and leave a lasting legacy for biodiversity and British Columbians."
WWF-Canada's Climb for Nature is more than just an annual fundraising event — it's a powerful community of thousands who climb, some year after year, to help safeguard wildlife and habitats. Started at the CN Tower 33 years ago, the event has expanded to include the climb at BC Place and a self-directed Anywhere Climb for Nature that allows people from across the country to hike, walk and climb in the name of Canadian conservation.
About the WWF BC Place Climb for Nature:
What the WWF Climb for Nature funds:
Funds raised for the WWF Climb for Nature support efforts in B.C. and across Canada to bring back nature, reverse wildlife loss and fight climate change. Learn more about WWF-Canada's 10-year plan to Regenerate Canada here.
For photos, footage and interviews:
ABOUT WWF-CANADA
WWF-Canada is committed to equitable and effective conservation actions that restore nature, reverse wildlife loss, and fight climate change. We draw on scientific analysis and Indigenous guidance to ensure all our efforts connect to a single goal: a future where wildlife, nature, and people thrive. For more information visit wwf.ca
SOURCE World Wildlife Fund Canada
For further information: Alicia Arruda, [email protected], 778-836-8460
Also from this source
Share this article