Canada: Geography and Environment

Canada is the world's second largest country by area, spanning six time zones from the Atlantic to the Pacific and the Arctic Ocean. Its geography includes the Canadian Shield's ancient rock formations, the Rocky Mountains in the west, the fertile prairies of the interior, and the Arctic Archipelago in the north. The country holds a substantial share of the world's freshwater, including the Great Lakes along its southern border.

Boreal forest covers much of Canada's landmass, supporting a forestry industry alongside significant biodiversity. Climate varies widely, from temperate coastal regions in British Columbia to subarctic and arctic conditions across much of the north.

Environmental priorities include managing permafrost thaw linked to climate change, protecting boreal and old growth forests, and balancing resource extraction such as oil sands development with conservation commitments. Canada participates in international climate agreements and maintains an extensive national park system.