In 2016, the Peterborough-Kawartha-Haliburton region in Ontario, Canada was recognized by the United Nations as a “Regional Centre of Expertise in Sustainability Education”, one of only 150 communities worldwide to be awarded this prestigious designation.

Locally, leading specialists in the environmental, health and educational fields were becoming alarmed by the increasing draw of technology and how it was impacting daily lives. Children were becoming more disconnected from the natural world than ever before.

They designed a simple framework of age-linked experiences to address a wide range of global issues through a local focus and widespread community support. It encourages educators and families to integrate these basic life-long teachings to build resilient, engaged and empowered young adults.

The movement began to guide youth back to the great outdoors to reduce stress, anxiety, depression and improve social and leadership skills. It enhanced physical and mental wellbeing through connection to the environment and their community.

The results exceeded expectations.