Our natural environment provides the things that we need to survive — breathable air, drinkable water, food for nourishment, security from flood and storm, and a stable atmosphere. Natural systems also provide the essentials for every economy to survive, such as oxygen, water and resources. Everything in the built environment originates from the natural environment.

However, the Cowichan Region is in a constant state of change. The climate is in flux, our population is growing, resources are in high demand, and our natural environment is continually under pressure. An approach is needed which combines science based monitoring, shared stewardship, and effective standards and regulations.

In 2010, the CVRD Environment Commission produced a comprehensive State of the Environment Report to assess the status of a variety of environmental indicators and issues that signal the health of the environment within the regional district. The report and subsequent updates are available at the links below.