Vancouver's best known environmentalist, David Suzuki, can park his Toyota Prius for free at city parking meters for the rest of his life.

That's because Mayor Gregor Robertson and city council have granted the scientist and broadcaster the prestigious Freedom of the City Award.

“Dr. David Suzuki has dedicated his life and career to educating and inspiring us all to take care of our planet and all who live here,” Robertson said in a news release. “He has touched the lives of countless communities and people across Canada, and his voice continues to ring loud and true on the urgent global challenges of climate change and species extinction."

It's the city's highest honour and is presented to those who've gained national or international acclaim for their accomplishments.

The award means that Suzuki can be called a Freeman of the City of Vancouver and have his name inscribed in the Book of Freedoms.

He also received a framed scroll, the Freedom Medal, and a parking decal enabling him to avoid parking tickets at expired city meters.

Previous winners include businessman Jimmy Pattison, housing advocate Judy Graves, former school trustee Pauline Weinstein, former lieutenant-governor David Lam, band leader Dal Richards, wheelchair athlete Rick Hansen, former mayor Art Phillips, former councillor Jim Green, and architect Arthur Erickson, among others.