Ecotrust Canada is a registered charity in Canada whose mission is to build a conservation economy. Founded in 1994, the organization currently has offices in Vancouver, Tofino and Prince Rupert, BC.
Working at the intersection of conservation and community economic development, the organization has undertaken a number of initiatives that distinguishes it from other Environmental non-profit organizations. The organization supports communities and green businesses in building new economic approaches in the fisheries, forestry, and energy sectors. Ecotrust Canada continues to be a green innovator and risk-taker in British Columbia through the following existing initiatives:
- Building an aggregative FSC program for small businesses
- Building a Regeneration Fund to help First Nation gain equity stakes in renewable energy project
- Founder and co-owner of Climate Smart - an organization that helps small businesses reduce their carbon footprints
- From 2006 to 2008, managed Iisaak Forest Resources, a wholly owned First Nation forestry company in Clayoquot Sound
- Build Fisheries licences banks in Clayoquot, and now in the Skeena
- Co-published a book with the Union of BC Indian Chiefts that establishes a global standard for land-use occupance surveys and mapping
- Oversee large regional initiatives in the marine and forest sectors
Ecotrust Canada maintains close relationship with Ecotrust in Portland Oregon, through their shared bioregional approach to conservation and development.
In 2010, an affiliated organization, Ecotrust Australia was launched with Ian Gill (founding President of Ecotrust Canada) moving to take on role of CEO.[1][2]