Local Change-Makers

Alberni Climate Action: A Port Alberni-based community group formed to address local climate crisis issues. They have established scholarships with North Island College and engage in various environmental initiatives. Alberni Climate Action Facebook Group | Facebook - Climate Action Charter | City of Port Alberni 

Alberni Environmental Coalition: A group of concerned citizens in the Alberni Valley active for over thirty years, focusing on environmental and human health issues. They operate on community funds, memberships, and donations, advocating for responsible stewardship of the earth's resources. About | Alberni Environmental Coalition 

Alberni Valley Transition Town Society: Dedicated to finding positive and practical solutions to climate change and peak oil challenges. This community group works towards transitioning to a low-carbon and resilient future. Alberni Valley Transition Town Society | Dedicated to a resilient, low carbon society. 

Air Quality Council - Alberni-Clayoquot Regional District: A multi-stakeholder initiative in the Alberni Basin dedicated to airshed management, air quality monitoring, research, and education. They provide a forum for stakeholders to collaborate on improving air quality in the region. Air Quality Council 

Coastal Restoration Society: A non-profit organization supporting environmental remediation goals of First Nations and government agencies. They lead industrial-scale restoration and stewardship projects in coastal communities and inland waterways. Coastal Restoration Society 

Sierra Club BC: An organization helping protect existing ecosystems and aiding in their recovery through shared knowledge and stronger environmental laws. They empower local leaders and foster alliances across sectors. Sierra Club BC Home | Sierra Club BC 

Wilderness Committee - Vancouver Island: A leading grassroots environmental group on the Island with full-time staff and volunteers. They focus on various environmental issues and encourage public involvement through actions like volunteering and donations. Vancouver Island | Wilderness Committee 

Raincoast Conservation Foundation: A team of scientists and conservationists working to safeguard the land, waters, and wildlife of coastal British Columbia. They conduct research to inform decision-makers and inspire action to protect wildlife habitats. What we do | Raincoast 

Andrew Gage: Andrew Gage is an environmental lawyer with West Coast Environmental Law. His journey into environmental activism began with his involvement in the 1993 Clayoquot Sound protests against clearcut logging on Vancouver Island. This pivotal experience led him to pursue environmental law, where he continues to advocate for environmental protection and sustainable policies. Andrew Gage | West Coast Environmental Law 

The Rainforest Flying Squad: The Fairy Creek old-growth logging protests represent one of the largest acts of civil disobedience in Canadian history, with over 1,000 protesters arrested as of February 2022. These activists, including local residents and Indigenous land defenders, have been instrumental in bringing global attention to the importance of preserving old-growth forests on Vancouver Island. Rainforest Flying Squad/The Last Stand - Forest Conservation Organizations - Evergreen Alliance 

Leap Victoria: Leap Victoria is a local group based in Lekwungen territory (Victoria) that has joined the movement to decolonize British Columbia. Celebrating its one-year anniversary, Leap Victoria focuses on environmental and social justice initiatives, emphasizing sustainable and equitable community practices. LEAP – Community Social Planning Council 

Alberni Valley Community Foundation: This foundation supports various local initiatives aimed at strengthening the Port Alberni community. While not exclusively focused on environmental issues, their support for community projects contributes to the overall well-being and sustainability of the region. The Alberni Valley Community Foundation | Alberni Valley Foundation