NOVEMBER 22, 2023, Xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam), Sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish) and səlilwətaɬ (Tsleil-Waututh)/Vancouver, BC – The British Columbia Assembly of First Nations (BCAFN) and Ecotrust Canada have partnered to create the First Nations Forest Carbon Toolkit. This new online resource is designed to provide clear, accessible information about First Nations-led forest carbon projects in British Columbia, with a specific emphasis on protecting intact forests and restoring forests degraded by logging.
Mandated by Chiefs in assembly to BCAFN, the toolkit is a response to the growing demand for updated, plain-language information regarding forest carbon projects on First Nations land in BC. Recognizing that high-quality forest carbon projects that are led by First Nations can be a path towards community land management and sustainable revenue, it is crucial that communities are equipped with the information necessary to evaluate potential carbon projects, including rejecting a project that does not align with their values and interests.
The First Nations Forest Carbon Toolkit features five learning modules, including climate change and natural climate solutions, carbon offsets and carbon markets, First Nations’ rights and carbon, case studies and project planning. Complementing the modules is the Project Idea Note Builder, a tool that is designed to facilitate the practical application of the toolkit’s information in planning on-the-ground carbon projects.
This initiative is generously funded by the Metcalf Foundation, with the development of the Toolkit commencing in 2021.
For more information or to access the Toolkit, please visit carbontoolkit.org
Terry Teegee, Regional Chief, BC Assembly of First Nations: “In this new era of global boiling, as we stand on the brink of a transition to a low-carbon economy, unique opportunities have emerged for First Nations to spearhead an economy centred around conservation that could align with our own laws and overall, with the principles and objectives outlined in the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples. The First Nations Forest Carbon Toolkit, in this context, emerged as a powerful piece in the puzzle, propelling us towards this First Nations-led conservation-based economy. It is a valuable resource that provides accessible information, promotes First Nations’ rights, supports sustainable land management, values First Nations’ knowledge and fosters collaborative partnerships. Moreover, this important platform will help First Nations leaders and technicians explore the benefits of forest carbon projects. By generating sustainable revenue streams, creating employment opportunities, and supporting local economic development, these projects can strengthen self-governance and enhance the ability to address vital social, cultural and economic priorities while supporting the global goal of reducing GHG emissions.”
Michelle Connolly, Project Manager, Climate Innovation, Ecotrust Canada: “First Nations are looking for unbiased information about what forest carbon projects are, what they mean for sovereignty and what they mean for the land. The toolkit enables community access to clear information.”
For more information:
Annette Schroeter – Communications Officer, British Columbia Assembly of First Nations
T: 778-281-1655 | annette.schroeter@bcafn.ca
Shannon Lough – Communications Manager, Ecotrust Canada
T: 250-624-4191 | media@ecotrust.ca
About British Columbia Assembly of First Nations (BCAFN)
BCAFN is a Provincial Territorial Organization that represents the 204 First Nations in BC and has the mandate to advance the rights and interests of First Nations people in BC. BCAFN representation and advocacy are inclusive and extend to First Nations currently engaged in the treaty process, those who have signed modern treaties, and those who fall under historic treaty agreements, which include the Douglas Treaties and Treaty 8. The BCAFN also represents and advocates for First Nations in BC that are not in treaty negotiations. Bcafn.ca
About Ecotrust Canada
Ecotrust Canada is an enterprising charity that works with rural, remote, and Indigenous communities toward building an economy that provides for a healthy and resilient natural environment; sustainable and abundant energy, food, and housing; prosperous and meaningful livelihoods; and vibrant and inclusive cultures. We call this approach building an economy that provides for life. Our on-the-ground work and systems approach is entrepreneurial, partnership-based, and relentlessly practical. ecotrust.ca
PRESS RELEASE: Announcing the First Nations Forest Carbon Toolkit (November 22, 2023)
