A Gift to the Earth is a public celebration from WWF of a significant conservation action by a government, company or other organization. In recognizing an action as a Gift to the Earth, WWF highlights both environmental leadership and inspiring conservation achievement, which contributes to the protection of the living world.

In the first hundred years of its National Parks system, Canada set aside about 277,000 km2 of lands and waters. In the past four years, the government has taken steps that will add nearly 90,000 km2 to the lands and waters administered by Parks Canada once regulations are in place. Included is the six-times expansion of Nahanni national park, as well as the creation of the Lake Superior and Gwaii Haanas national marine conservation areas.

"As WWF's highest accolade, this recognizes Parks Canada's many significant conservation achievements, including its globally significant track record in creating protected areas and reintroducing endangered species. We are proud to work with Parks Canada and look forward to the next 100 years of Parks Canada conservation efforts," said Gerald Butts, President and CEO of WWF-Canada.