The REEL Earth Day Challenge has wrapped its sixth year, bringing together British Columbia’s film and television industry to give back to the landscapes that so often appear on screen. From local parks that double as iconic film backdrops to neighbourhood trails viewers recognize from their favourite series, Metro Vancouver’s regional parks are deeply woven into the province’s storytelling identity.
Presented by Reel Green™, the BC Film Commission’s industry-leading sustainable production program at Creative BC, in partnership with the Metro Vancouver Regional Parks Foundation, the challenge highlights a simple idea: the places that help bring stories to life can also be strengthened by the industry that celebrates them. Held during Earth Month, the event encourages B.C.’s production community to take daily environmentally sustainable actions while raising funds and awareness for restorative park projects across the region.
Regional parks across Metro Vancouver are among the most frequently used filming locations in the province. Funds raised through the REEL Earth Day Challenge support park projects and community programs that fall outside core government funding, helping protect and enhance these spaces for the future. This year’s impact includes $85,000 raised to date, with a total of over $640,000 raised since inception, supporting 9 funded park projects in 2026.
Projects this year include shoreline stabilization and native planting at Sasamat Lake, coastal dune restoration in Boundary Bay Regional Park, and riparian forest restoration at Derby Reach Regional Park. Community programs include Indigenous-led free summer camps for youth, “Picnic in the Park” experiences for newcomers, and seniors programming that supports access to nature and wellbeing. Hands-on stewardship activities like Ecoblitz also engage volunteers in planting and restoration work that helps build healthier, more resilient parks.
“This year’s Challenge was made possible with the support of key industry partners and the exceptional cast and crew who are committed to a sustainable future for the industry,” said Katharine Pavoni, Deputy Director, BC Film Commission at Creative BC. “These green spaces are an essential part of B.C.’s iconic landscapes seen in hundreds of movies and series each year, and the REEL Earth Day Challenge is one way our industry can give back to the places that help bring those stories to life.”
For more information on the REEL Earth Day Challenge and the projects it funds, visit reelearthdaychallenge.ca.
