2023 achievements include more trees and a plan for active transportation

Richmond Hill – The City of Richmond Hill continues to demonstrate its commitment to becoming a more sustainable and resilient community – one that values the environment and takes action to protect it.

A recent report to Council outlined the City and community’s 2023 environmental achievements. Select accomplishments include:

• Growth of our tree canopy with 11,482 trees and shrubs planted – 9,204 on City property by volunteers through our Community Stewardship Program and 1,305 by residents on private property through our Healthy Yards Program
• Council approval and launch of the Transportation Master Plan, which will guide the future of the City’s walking, cycling, off-road trails and road networks to support growth
• Opening of two new collective gardens on City property, which are run by community organizations and focus on growing food for those in need
• Completion of an additional 1.2km of recreational trails at David Dunlap Observatory Park
• Recognition as a Bird Friendly City by Nature Canada for our efforts to protect birds, as well as creation of a community Bird Team to help increase public awareness
• Litter clean-up in 100 parks and trails and 145 streets and pathways during the Clean Up, Green Up event thanks to a record-setting 12,000 community volunteers
• Energy and cost saving upgrades at all City arenas and three community centres

For more information about Richmond Hill’s environmental programs, achievements and how to get involved, visit RichmondHill.ca/Greening.

Quotes

“I’m incredibly proud of the work the City and community have done together to not only maintain a healthy local environment, but actually make it better. I encourage and invite everyone to get involved and I look forward to continuing this great work together. Our collective efforts make a big difference.” - Mayor David West

Additional Links

• 2023 Environmental Achievements Highlight Sheet