The Nature Conservancy of Canada (NCC) has launched a new national program to get more Canadians outdoors, not only during the summer months but year-round.

The not-for-profit, land conservation organization is inviting everyone to take the Nature Quiz.

Andrew Holland Spokesperson with the NCC explained the quiz further.

"The idea is to encourage more Canadian people to spend time outdoors for a number of reasons, mainly spending time outdoors in nature helps us gain a greater understanding and appreciation for the need to protect it. It helps us learn more about different areas and species, plants and animals, but more importantly, for ourselves, it helps improve our mental well-being and our physical health as well."

The quiz is comprised of six questions that measure your relationship with nature. 

At the end of the quiz, you can sign up via email for Nature Coach, a free 8-week program that provides you with tips and activities designed to help more people getting outside and into nature.

In a recent survey conducted for the NCC, 87 percent of respondents said they are happier when connected to nature. And yet, 66 percent admit they spend less time in nature now than in their youth. In fact, as more of us live in urban centers filled with technology and distractions, Canadians spend 90 percent of their time indoors. 

The Nature Quiz program is based on the research of Dr. Lisa Nisbet, an associate professor of psychology at Peterborough’s Trent University, with support from NCC’s national senior conservation biologist, Dan Kraus. 

“Canada is home to some of the greatest natural areas in the world,” said Dan Kraus, “As Canadians, nature is part of our heritage, our identity, yet many of us actually have a poor relationship with nature. This program will hopefully encourage and inspire more of us to reconnect with the natural beauty that is around us, and that we frankly take for granted.”

 People can take the quiz, learn their Nature Score and sign up for a Nature Coach, by visiting NatureQuiz.ca.