Our Work

The Clayoquot Biosphere Trust (CBT) is a registered charity based on the west coast of British Columbia, Canada. Established in 2000, CBT is the only organization in Canada that is both a community foundation and a UNESCO biosphere. We pair this spirit of community with the power of a global presence to bring more people together for a shared understanding.

We are one of 1,800 community foundations worldwide implementing United Nations’ goals to reduce poverty, end hunger, ensure quality education, and protect the environment. CBT also oversees the Clayoquot Sound Biosphere Region designation, one of Canada’s 19 UNESCO biospheres, and sustainability is at the heart of everything we do. Our team works to strengthen the development of all citizens, communities, and the ecosystems on which we all depend, for a future we can all be proud of

Our Vision

The community of the Clayoquot Sound UNESCO Biosphere Region (CSBR) will live sustainably in a healthy ecosystem, with a diversified economy, and strong, vibrant, and united cultures, while embracing the Nuu-chah–nulth First Nations living philosophies of iisaak (respecting), qʷaaʔakqin tiičmis (it is how we live; it is our culture), and hišukʔiš c̓awaak (everything is one).

Our Mission

The mission of the Clayoquot Biosphere Trust (CBT) is to assist the Clayoquot Sound UNESCO Biosphere Region community to achieve its vision by providing funding and logistical support for research, education, and training initiatives that promote conservation and sustainable development.

The CBT will facilitate the sharing and exchange of knowledge and experience both locally and globally. The CBT will accomplish these objectives by working creatively and proactively within the framework of the UNESCO Man and the Biosphere Programme.

We acknowledge the territories of hiškʷiiʔatḥ (Hesquiaht First Nation), ʕaaḥuusʔatḥ (Ahousaht), ƛaʔuukʷiʔatḥ (Tla-o-qui-aht First Nations), Yuułuʔiłʔatḥ Government (Ucluelet First Nation), and tukʷaaʔatḥ (Toquaht Nation).