New Survey: 6 in 7 U.S. Adults Support Local Environmental Protection Efforts

(April 1, 2021)

Park and recreation professionals play a vital role in the protection of our environment

As we enter Earth Month, 6 in 7 U.S. adults are in strong support of local environmental protection efforts typically led by park and recreation professionals and their agencies, according to a newly released National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA) poll. The top three community-based environmental conservation initiatives supported by people of all ages include:  

  • Wildlife conservation
  • Environmental education
  • Nature Resource management

Other park and recreation sponsored conservation-based activities people generally support include:  

  • Alleviating climate change impacts
  • Nurturing pollinator habitats
  • Managing land for flood mitigation

 “This Earth Month, we celebrate park and recreation professionals and volunteers who promote and support these important conservation initiatives in communities everywhere,” said Kevin Roth, NRPA’s vice president of research, evaluation and technology. “We encourage everyone to think about how they can help support conservation efforts locally, whether it’s through a community-based volunteer program or a nature-based at-home family-friendly activity.”      

 NRPA is proud to support park and recreation professionals nationwide in their efforts to build a strong and healthy planet. A statement issued by NRPA highlights the organization’s strong commitment to helping park and recreation professionals everywhere prepare their communities to adapt to a changing climate through a variety of resources — including training, research and tools — prepared specifically for this cause. The statement also highlights ways in which NRPA is reducing its own environmental footprint through environmentally friendly business practices that promote a healthy and sustainable planet. A copy of the statement is available here.

 To view the interactive charts with the survey results, click here.

 To view the full-size infographic, click here.

 To learn more about NRPA, visit www.nrpa.org.   

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About the National Recreation and Park Association
The National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA) is the leading not-for-profit organization dedicated to building strong, vibrant and resilient communities through the power of parks and recreation. With more than 60,000 members, NRPA advances this mission by investing in and championing the work of park and recreation professionals and advocates — the catalysts for positive change in service of equity, climate-readiness, and overall health and well-being. For more information, visit www.nrpa.org. For digital access to NRPA’s flagship publication, Parks & Recreation, visit www.parksandrecreation.org.