News release

For immediate release

Saanich Parks receives international award for Natural Intelligence campaign

Saanich, BC – Saanich Parks recently received international recognition for its 2020 Natural Intelligence campaign winning first place in the Campaign of the Year – Associations and Institutions category at the 2021 Digital Communications Awards sponsored by Quadriga University of Applied Sciences in Berlin.

“Our team is honoured to receive this recognition as we continue to build Natural Intelligence into the community and through our organization,” said Senior Manager Parks Eva Riccius. “Natural Intelligence is a concept we define as every individual’s personal connection to the natural world around them. Our campaign’s aim was to increase that connection to nature using a public education and awareness approach.”

Recognized research shows the average person spends approximately 11 hours per day looking at screens and only 20 minutes outdoors. The 2020 Natural Intelligence campaign, Saanich Parks. Less Screen Time, More Green Time., encouraged people to increase their “green time” outdoors while reducing their daily screen time on all devices. Spending time outdoors in nature has significant emotional and physical health benefits.

“Congratulations to our Parks Division on this huge achievement,” said Councillor and Parks, Trails and Recreation Committee Chair Judy Brownoff. “Especially during the ongoing pandemic with our increased reliance on devices and online activities, it’s essential for people of all ages to spend more time outdoors—this campaign succeeded in encouraging people to do that.”

During the campaign period of July to September 2020, usage of parks surged more than 150 per cent over previous year levels. Community engagement also increased with people interested to learn more. Time spent on the Saanich Parks webpages as well as social media engagement grew dramatically through the campaign.

Learn more

Natural Intelligence is much bigger than just one campaign. It’s an ongoing effort to increase Saanich residents’ connection to nature. Visit saanich.ca/naturalintelligence for a variety of resources and to learn more about how you can increase your Natural Intelligence.

-30-

Media contact:
Eva Riccius
Senior Manager Parks
eva.riccius@saanich.ca
250-475-5522