Since its inception in 1994, Women's Healthy Environments Network has been educating the general public, media and policy makers to the fact that environmental health is a key determinant of public health.

WHEN actively promotes the primary prevention of environmentally linked health conditions such as cancer, asthma, immune system related conditions and others by advocating the reduction of toxic emissions; more efficient, renewable energy sources; affordable public transportation; a shift to safe production models, biological agriculture and lawn care and more.

While WHEN focuses on the primary prevention of women's reproductive health problems, it also addresses other environmentally linked health issues. Recognizing that growing numbers of people are calling for clean and safe air, food, water and soil, WHEN routinely organizes and participates on many different levels in a variety of activities. Information is disseminated through workshops, courses, public meetings, conferences, panel discussions, and displays; in various venues such as communities, schools, universities, and workplaces.

WHEN builds networks with others at local, national and international levels (community groups, teachers, academics, health professionals, labour unions, policy makers) to engage and educate about the links between the environment and our health.

Our programs give credence to community voices calling for more holistic environmental and preventive approaches to health, justice and planetary sustainability. For a full listing of our partners, click here. For more information on our programs and educational tools, please visit our Programs and Workshops section.

To review/print our brochure, click here.

Matrons of Honour

The following accomplished women have been long time supporters of WHEN. They have graciously endorsed WHEN’s mission and activities.

Jean Augustine
Fairness Commissioner, Government of Ontario

Olivia Chow
Member of Parliament

Ursula Franklin PhD.
Professor Emerita, University of Toronto

Ruth Grier
Former Ontario Minister of Environment and of Health

Eva Johnson
Coordinator, Environment Protection, Kahnawake Environment Office

Michele Landsberg
Journalist, Author, Social Critic

Elizabeth May
Leader of the Green Party of Canada

Lynn Marshall M.D.
Medical Education Liaison, Environmental Health Clinic, Women’s College Hospital

Mira Spivack
Retired Senator of Canada