June 1, 2001
Ottawa, Ontario

Prime Minister Jean Chrétien today issued this statement to mark Environment Week 2001 (June3 - 9) and Clean Air Day (Wednesday June 6):

There is no more fitting occasion than the first week of June for us to mark Environment Week and Clean Air Day. It is a time that finds Canadians enjoying the full bloom of spring and savouring the promise of the summer to come. It is a time when our thoughts and plans turn to the outdoors – to parks, camping, cottages, swimming, fishing and hiking. It is, in short, a time when we reflect on the extraordinary natural blessing we enjoy as a people and our obligation, as environmental stewards, to future generations.

Living up to this profound responsibility requires a common appreciation of the role we can each play in preserving the quality of the air, land and water, and in wisely harvesting our bountiful natural resources.

But it is more than an abiding national challenge, it is also an exciting economic opportunity. One that will be seized only by those countries who have the foresight and creativity to expand the application and development of "green" technologies.

The Government of Canada is working to meet those goals in a variety of ways. We are pressing ahead with strategies on clean air and clean water, we are taking action on climate change and we are conserving our natural spaces. We have made, and will continue to make, significant investments in the environment by supporting community initiatives, funding research, assisting in the further development of new environmental technologies, supporting international environmental initiatives and strengthening the measures at our disposal to reduce air and water pollution.

Our clean air, clean water and the great natural beauty of Canada are ours to enjoy, conserve and protect for now and future generations. Join me in celebrating Environment Week this year by making a resolution to act today – and every day - for cleaner and healthier environment.

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PMO Press Office: (613) 957-5555