| #CanadaFacts
Environment
Learn about key issues that are impacting the environment and explore how they affect Canadians. We sift through data published in government reports and databases to uncover interesting trends and insights. Our Canada Facts series explores insights about Canada, all backed by solid data and designed to keep you informed and intrigued.
What are conservation authorities?
Ontario is the only province or territory in Canada with Conservation Authorities. There are 36 across the province — 31 in southern Ontario with 5 in northern Ontario responsible for protecting land and water from natural hazards such as flooding, drought, erosion, and deforestation.
What are critical minerals and where are they found in Canada?
Canada is a global mining powerhouse, boasting abundant reserves of the critical minerals that underpin tomorrow’s technology. It has active mines, smelters, refineries, and a robust pipeline of advanced‑stage projects in every province and territory except Prince Edward Island.
How much forest does Canada have?
Canada covers 9.98 million square kilometers, making it the second largest country in the world. In 2022, Canada forests made up 3.67 million square kilometers (367 million hectares), or almost 37% of the country’s total land area. These forests account for approximately 9% of the world's forests and 25% of the world’s boreal forest.