For World Environment Day 2017, the global host country Canada demonstrated its commitment to environmental action on the occasion of its 150th anniversary of confederation. The theme adopted by the Canadian government, “Connecting People to Nature,” resonated around the world as thousands of people spent time outdoors, while governments and organizations announced bold new initiatives to safeguard our planet. On June 5, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and Environment Minister Catherine McKenna joined UN Environment Chief Erik Solheim to connect with nature by paddling kayaks on the Niagara River close to the famous Falls. The Prime Minister called on Canadians to follow through with the day’s theme “to get outside and appreciate the healthy ecosystems that contribute to our well-being, and to do our part to protect the planet we share.”