12 December 2023 – The Caribbean Biodiversity Fund (CBF) and the Environmental Careers Organization of Canada (ECO Canada) were pleased to deliver on their recently-signed Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) toward fostering environmental resilience and sustainable development in the Caribbean. Last month, ECO Canada joined CBF for their first meeting of the Advancing Circular Economy (ACE) Facility Committee as part of this strategic partnership that aims to unite their strengths in a collaborative effort to address critical environmental challenges in the region.
The Caribbean faces unique environmental vulnerabilities, compounded by the disproportionate impacts of climate change on different demographic groups. Recognizing the urgent need for joint action, the MOU between the CBF and ECO Canada outlines a framework for cooperation to achieve shared goals in the conservation, protection, enhancement, and support of nature and natural resources, including biodiversity and climate resilience in the Caribbean.
The core objectives of the MOU include fostering regular dialogue and collaboration and implementing various activities, projects, and programs that align with their shared vision for the Caribbean region.
ECO Canada will collaborate with the CBF on a range of initiatives, including the ECO Canada accreditation program, environmental professional designation and recognition programs, online courses and training, micro-credentials, joint online academic or professional development programs as well as participation in various strategic internationally funded projects.
This partnership is a crucial step in furthering the missions of both organizations. ECO Canada, a not-for-profit corporation founded in 1992, is dedicated to promoting the development of the environmental workforce and fostering a thriving and sustainable economy. Through certification, accreditation, training, and research, ECO Canada has played a pivotal role in shaping the environmental sector in Canada.
The CBF was established in 2012 to create reliable, long-term funding for conservation and sustainable development in the Caribbean region. Today, as a regional umbrella environmental fund, the CBF uses a flexible structure to implement innovative solutions and consolidate resource mobilization in the Caribbean through a range of financial instruments.
The collaboration between the CBF and ECO Canada is expected to yield meaningful results that promote environmental sustainability, workforce development, and climate resilience in the Caribbean. This partnership reinforces the commitment of both organizations to tackle environmental challenges effectively and contribute to the broader global effort for a more sustainable and resilient future.
Learn more about ECO Canada and the CBF’s work in the Caribbean.
