How will you celebrate?

Canadians have been celebrating Environment Week for 39 years. Taking place annually during the first week in June, to coincide with World Environment Day on June 5th, Canadian Environment Week is designed to educated people about the value of our environment and to talk about what we can do to help preserve our earth's beauty and make our plaent sustainable.

Clean Air Day, celebrated on June 2nd, raises awareness and encourages action on clean air and climate change issues. Canadians can show their commitment by participating in activities that contribute to cleaner air, healthier communities and a better quality of life for all. Along that same vein, the National Commuter Challenge also takes place during this time of the year, to encourage commuters to get out of their cars, and use alternative transportation to get to work. Why not try walking, biking or taking the bus? Even carpooling is a good option.

Here in Federicton, we have a bit of encouragement when it comes to alternative transportation. For 2 months this summer, one of the bridges that crosses the river separating our City is going to be closed to traffic. 20,000 vehicles will have to be diverted, and it will increase traffic on our second bridge by 40-50%. Fredericton residents have never had to deal with congestion before, but they will now! In an effort to encourgae alternative transportation - which in fact is also a sound environment choice, and depending on what you choose, a healthy and active one too - we are launching Freddy's Commuter Challenge. We want people to challenge their old commuting habits and start alternatively commuting! By allieviating traffic congestion caused by the bridge closure, it will make for a much more pleasant summer.

There are many ways to celebrate Environment Week in Fredericton! Check out the Green Matters Website for a complete list of all the great activities!

Environment Canada also has some tips about how to celebrate Environment Week.

Here are a couple challenges I urge you to consider:

• Drink your coffee or tea only from a reusable mug this week
• Walk or bike or take the bus to work rather than driving
• Take a walk on one of Fredericton's beautiful tree-lined trails, and enjoy the beauty that our natural surrounding possess
• Teach someone else about Environment Week
• Join Freddy's Commuter Challenge!

Happy Canadian Environment Week! Let's show our planet a little love!