New Accomplishments Update Highlights the Transformative Impact of FESBC-Funded Projects on Climate Action
Local Forest Workers in British Columbia Take Significant Steps to Combat Climate Change
Kamloops, B.C. – British Columbia’s forestry sector, in collaboration with the Forest Enhancement Society of BC (FESBC), is making significant strides to take action on climate change. To showcase the impacts of the work undertaken by FESBC and its project partners, FESBC has released an accomplishments update titled “Climate Solutions Powered By British Columbia’s Forest Workers.” The update shares how B.C.’s forest workers are helping drive climate change solutions and how, as a result, British Columbia and the world are seeing environmental, social, and economic wins.
“Our work with our project partners highlights the power of collaboration in taking action on climate change using the powerful nature-based tool of forestry. By turning wood waste into green energy and reducing the risk of catastrophic wildfires which emit many tonnes of smoke into the air, we are not only helping to reduce greenhouse gas emissions but creating environmentally sustainable economic opportunities for communities throughout the province,” said FESBC’s Executive Director, Steve Kozuki. “These projects demonstrate that when we work together, we can achieve meaningful and lasting impacts for the environment, for our society, and for our economy.”
Since FESBC’s inception in 2017 through early 2023, FESBC-funded projects have sequestered 4.2 million tonnes of CO2e—equivalent to removing 904,000 cars from the road for an entire year—while delivering numerous benefits beyond wildfire risk reduction and fibre utilization. This latest Accomplishments Update from FESBC highlights three impactful projects featuring partnerships with BioNorth Energy in Fort St. James, Williams Lake First Nation, and Atli Resources LP on Vancouver Island. It showcases how local forestry workers are working to transform logging waste and low-value fibre into valuable green energy, reducing greenhouse gas emissions, all while supporting local economies and effectively reducing the province’s carbon footprint.
Second row: A closer look at the residual fibre for sustainable applications such as biomass, paper products, etc. Photo Credit: Tiffany Christianson Photography/FESBC.
Reflecting on the Atli Resources LP project’s profound cultural and environmental impacts and why undertaking such projects is important, Chief Victor Isaac of the ‘Namgis First Nation said, “For generations, our connection to the forest has been fundamental, from the cedar bark used in our traditions and day-to-day life to the trees that support our existence. These forests are not just resources—they are vital to our cultural identity and way of life. FESBC’s funding has been crucial in maintaining this. It’s allowed us to integrate sustainable management practices that respect our heritage while ensuring the forests remain vibrant and productive for future generations. This project doesn’t just benefit us economically through job creation—it helps maintain the health of our lands, which is priceless.”
The Accomplishments Update also provides a broader overview of the societal impact of these initiatives, including an analysis based on the Social Cost of Carbon. This benchmark, used by scientists and economists, measures the effectiveness of activities aimed at reducing carbon emissions. FESBC’s projects have consistently outperformed expectations, proving their efficacy in contributing to a more sustainable future.
“The Forest Enhancement Society of BC (FESBC) is an important partner in our work supporting the forest sector, leading projects focussed on enhancing recreational values, stand rehabilitation, and supplying fibre to local mills,” said Shane Berg, chief forester and assistant deputy minister for the Office of the Chief Forester. “We also know that prevention is a vital part of protecting communities from wildfires, and the projects supported by FESBC are strong examples of the proactive work we undertake to protect both forests and communities in B.C.”
To explore the full scope of these and other similar initiatives undertaken throughout B.C. through FESBC funding, visit the website at www.fesbc.ca
FESBC would like to gratefully acknowledge the financial support of the Province of British Columbia through the Ministry of Forests.