Inadequate Green Space

What is green space?

Green space is undeveloped land, or land that is left in a natural or semi-natural state. Examples include parks, forests, and even home gardens.

Why is green space important to the Great Lakes?

The benefits of green space are almost endless. Green space filters pollution out of air and water, moderates temperatures, protects drinking water sources, swallows up carbon dioxide emissions that contribute to climate change, provides vital habitat for birds and animals, reduces flooding, helps prevent soil erosion, encourages local food growth, reduces urban runoff, provides recreation space for locals and tourists, and lowers the burden on municipal storm water systems.

What if there isn't enough of it?

Without adequate green space, we don't have enough trees to filter air pollution. Grass and dirt help decompose pollutants, but if those same pollutants end up on concrete roads they just get washed into the Great Lakes when it rains. And instead of having moist soil to absorb heavy rain, rain runs quickly into overloaded creeks and storm drains which can cause flooding in streets and homes.

How can I help preserve green space in my neighbourhood?

Luckily it's easy to protect and enhance local green space.

· Plant and maintain trees in your community
· If you have a yard, grow native, drought-resistant plants
· Water your garden with a rain barrel
· Use parks in your neighbourhood – use it or lose it!
· Compost household waste – it's great at absorbing water
· Take the Greenbelt Pledge