The Government of Canada is strengthening youth engagement in environmental protection by investing over $14.4 million from the Environmental Damages Fund’s Climate Action and Awareness Fund. This funding will support 17 environmental literacy projects across the country, aimed at equipping young Canadians with the knowledge, tools, and skills needed to develop sustainable solutions and combat climate change.
The announcement was made by the Honourable Julie Dabrusin, Minister of Environment and Climate Change, during a visit to the BC Parks Foundation in Vancouver. The foundation is receiving $1.8 million to enhance environmental literacy and leadership among youth in British Columbia. Through this project, students will engage in climate change mitigation and biodiversity initiatives in parks, school grounds, and classrooms. An additional $1.5 million is being contributed by British Columbia’s Ministry of Environment and Parks, supporting this federal investment as part of a larger collaboration between provincial, federal, and private sectors.
A wide range of organizations—including Indigenous communities, academic institutions, environmental groups, and community organizations—are leading the funded projects. Activities will include educational programs in parks, community outreach, and the development of learning resources tailored to youth and educators. These initiatives aim to raise environmental awareness and empower young people to contribute meaningfully to their local ecosystems.
Of the total investment, $3.2 million is allocated specifically to Indigenous-led projects. These initiatives focus on delivering environmental education that blends Traditional Knowledge with western climate science, providing Indigenous youth with a culturally grounded and scientifically informed understanding of environmental stewardship.
