Volunteer Opportunities in Sustainability

Written By Emma Calder

Written by Jeeyanshi Gupta, Sustainability Committee member

In today’s world, the urgency of the climate crisis cannot be overlooked. Getting involved in sustainability work has become essential for everyone, regardless of age. For youth and others, volunteering in environmental initiatives offers a tangible way to contribute, acquire meaningful skills, and foster change within your community. While planting trees and reducing waste are important, the broader goal is to create a future where both people and the planet can coexist beneficially and so now could be a great time to consider how you can make an impact. Listed below are some of those organisations in the Lower Mainland allowing you to make a difference and dip your toe into the work of sustainability and environmental action!

1- Be the Change Earth Alliance

Be the Change Earth Alliance (BTCEA) is a Vancouver-based, charitable, non-profit organization founded in 2005. They deliver eco-social education initiatives that engage youth and educators in meaningful learning and action on environmental, social and climate justice. They mostly work with the BC education system to create empowering educational opportunities for all learners.

2- CityHive

They envision youth in Vancouver to be actively involved in civic planning, shaping and decision making, as a youth-engaged city is a resilient, sustainable, and livable city—not only for young people, but for all current and future generations. Issues around the environment are tackled using youth perspectives and experiences, in order to make holistic and comprehensive suggestions/decisions. 

3- Stanley Park Ecology Society

A registered charity since 1988, began as the Stanley Park Zoological Society with the aims of education, conservation and outreach programs. SPES also advises the Park Board on conservation issues within the Park with an emphasis on wildlife, habitat and Species at Risk.

4- BC Sustainable energy association (BCSEA)

BCSEA is a network of action takers supporting sustainable energy policy, innovation, and education in British Columbia. Their mission is to create a sustainable future through educational programs, policy advocacy, public outreach and energy planning.

5- The British Columbia Council for International Cooperation (BCCIC) 

The British Columbia Council for International Cooperation (BCCIC) is a coalition of people working in solidarity with partners across the world working to improve their own conditions. Their vision is global collaboration for a just, equitable, socially inclusive and sustainable world.

6- Society Promoting Environmental Conservation (SPEC)

The Society Promoting Environmental Conservation (SPEC) is a non-profit, charitable and volunteer-driven organization, founded in 1969. They work with citizens, industries and government agencies, to create a healthy environment.

7- City of Vancouver

8- Environmental Youth Alliance

9- UBC Climate Hub

10- UBC sustainability

11- Shake Up the Establishment

12- Apathy is Boring


Additional websites to look for volunteer and job opportunities:

Source

Emma Calder
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