Indigenous Peoples need to participate fully in, and benefit from, Canada’s emerging environmental sector and the expansion of new jobs within the market
In 2001, a partnership between ECO Canada and Indigenous Works led to the emergence of our flagship program, the Indigenous Environmental BEAHR Training Programs. BEAHR was established with the aim of increasing the participation of Indigenous talent in the environmental sector.
ECO Canada’s Guiding Principles
Our relationship with Indigenous peoples is founded on respect. Respect for their distinct cultures, history, unique relationship to the land and the legal status of Indigenous Peoples. We are committed to collaborating with Indigenous Peoples and their communities to build long-term and mutually beneficial relationships based on the values of honesty, and inclusion.
As an organization that aims to deliver training that is culturally relevant, and that blends Traditional Knowledge with Western Science while including Elder and Traditional Knowledge holder participation, it is paramount to center our efforts in the following principles
- Acknowledging that the Treaty Rights of Indigenous people in Canada are affirmed, recognized and protected by the Canadian Constitution.
- Acknowledging the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP) and committing to work with Indigenous People within the Canadian legal and constitutional framework.
- Acknowledging and recognizing the diversity of Indigenous peoples in Canada and committing to interact with each Indigenous community in a way that respects their culture, customs, and history.
- Acknowledging and respecting that each Indigenous community has its own distinct and unique connection with the land and environment.
- Appreciating the importance of learning from and respecting the cultures in which we operate.
ECO Canada works together with Indigenous communities and organizations to provide entry-level training to groups of students, so they can perform environmental work at an assistant level. For more information on training opportunities, download our program guide.
