The West CoastB次元官网网址檚 first biosphere centre project took a massive leap forward last month.
The Clayoquot Biosphere Trust announced a $7.17 million infusion from the Federal GovernmentB次元官网网址檚 Green and Inclusive Community Buildings program on May 16.
B次元官网网址淎 tribute to all those who have worked so diligently with the CBT, First Nations and local and regional governments, over many years to strengthen community resilience and promote conservation through public education,B次元官网网址� said Courtenay-Alberni MP Gord Johns through the announcement. B次元官网网址淢ay this wonderful facility inspire generations to come and contribute to the health of our planet.B次元官网网址�
A biosphere centre has been a long-held vision for the CBT, which purchased an 881 square-metre property at 301 Olsen Road in 2019 as the home of the future centre and went through a successful rezoning process in 2022.
B次元官网网址淭he construction of the Biosphere Centre represents a significant milestone in our collective journey towards equity and reconciliation,B次元官网网址� said CBT executive director Rebecca Hurwitz. B次元官网网址淭hrough meaningful engagement and thoughtful design, we are creating a space that reflects the diverse voices and aspirations of our communities.B次元官网网址�
The facility is expected to cost about $15 million and, following the federal governmentB次元官网网址檚 $7 million addition, the CBT has now raised $9.9 million towards the project, with hopes to have construction finished in 2026.
B次元官网网址淭he Clayoquot Sound Biosphere Centre will be a valuable asset to Tofino and area in terms of reconciliation, cultural understanding, economic development, and environmental conservation,B次元官网网址� said Minister of Energy and Natural Resources Jonathan Wilkinson on behalf of Minister of Housing, Infrastructure and Communities Sean Fraser.
B次元官网网址淭he Biosphere Centre will facilitate important programming, dialogue, and learning opportunities for local Nuu-chah-nulth peoples and other communities in the region, as well as for visitors. We will continue to invest in a brighter future for Canadians by supporting projects that encourage collaboration, innovation, and the adoption of more sustainable practices.B次元官网网址�
The CBT heralds the future 9,400 sq. ft, net-zero facility as a dedicated space to advance sustainable development, youth empowerment, biodiversity conservation and community resilience.
B次元官网网址淭he Centre will offer immersive indoor and outdoor learning experiences tailored to diverse audiences,B次元官网网址� the announcement reads. B次元官网网址淰isitors and residents alike will have the opportunity to deepen their understanding of the biosphere regionB次元官网网址檚 ecological and cultural significance, enjoy innovative programming, and engage in opportunities including culinary training aimed at strengthening local food security.B次元官网网址�
It adds that the centre will also offer a shared space to local First Nations fostering community health, reconciliation, education, cultural understanding, sustainability, and economic development.
B次元官网网址淎s Tla-o-qui-aht First Nation, weB次元官网网址檙e deeply grateful for the Federal GovernmentB次元官网网址檚 investment in the Clayoquot Sound Biosphere Centre,B次元官网网址� said CBT Director Lorena Frank. B次元官网网址淭his milestone embodies our commitment to reconciliation and cultural preservation. Situated in our ancestral territory, the Centre will foster healing and promote understanding of our regionB次元官网网址檚 cultural significance, ensuring a lasting legacy for youth and future generations.B次元官网网址�
Anyone interested in learning more about the future facility can find more information at .
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