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Why is Recreation So Important?
Active people lead healthier lives and have stronger connections to their communities. A powerful case exists that investment in recreation infrastructure is a preventative approach to health and social well-being that offsets spending on reactive infrastructure such as hospitals and jails.
So why should we be investing in recreation?
For Healthy Active People
Participation in physical activity and recreation is a key determinant of health status and is known to: reduce risk of heart disease and stroke, help prevent certain types of cancers, help combat type 2 diabetes, reduce occurrence of youth and adult obesity and help reduce incidence of fall-related injuries and chronic conditions in older adults. Activity can also foster social opportunities and contribute to mental health by reducing stress, combatting depression and building emotional well-being.
For Social Engagement
Recreation builds stronger individuals and families by reducing negative, self-destructive behaviours such as smoking, substance abuse and juvenile delinquency. This positive approach helps reduce social service and justice costs. Recreation has the ability to break down cultural, class and identity barriers, improving the quality of life for all British Columbians.
For Community Spirit
Recreation engages people and builds social cohesion, generating healthy, inclusive communities. People feel an emotional connection to the places that bring them enjoyment, making our recreation nodes truly a heart within our communities.
For Environmental Responsibility
Recreation goes hand in hand with environmental protection. Parks and natural areas protect habitat, improve air quality and clean water resources. Active people seek opportunities to incorporate exercise and recreation into their daily lives, often choosing to walk and cycle rather than drive. It is time to ensure our recreation infrastructure supports our environmental commitment by providing energy-efficient, green places for us to play.
For the Economy
Investment in recreation infrastructure offsets reactive investments in health and social justice infrastructure. Parks, trails and recreation facilities increase property values and tax revenue. Recreation facilities generate construction and operations job opportunities and support tourism, providing venues for everything from high-performance sporting events to recreational attractions.
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Want to know more?
Access the full report and background studies here.
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